Cat Bronchitis: Causes, Symptoms & Vet-Approved Treatment Options

Cat bronchitis is a serious condition that can endanger your cat's life if left untreated. In this article, you’ll learn about bronchitis in cats—its causes, clinical signs, diagnosis, treatment options, natural remedies, and more.

What is Bronchitis in Cats?

Medical terms ending in “-itis” indicate acute or chronic inflammation. For example, "bronchitis" refers to inflamed bronchial tubes, bronchiolitis to inflamed bronchioles, and "gastritis" to an inflamed stomach.

The bronchi, the main airways branching from the trachea, transport oxygen to your cat’s lungs. When inflamed (bronchitis), they disrupt proper oxygen flow. Bronchitis can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term).

Acute bronchitis in cats typically lasts a few days and involves reversible changes in the respiratory tract.

Alternatively, chronic cat bronchitis lasts over two months and develops gradually, often causing permanent airway damage. While treatment can manage symptoms, irreversible changes mean the condition cannot be fully cured.

Feline Bronchitis vs. Feline Asthma

Bronchitis and feline asthma are distinct conditions with similar symptoms that can sometimes coexist. Cats with chronic bronchitis may also experience asthma attacks, though their underlying mechanisms differ.

It is important to take note that true asthma refers to a different health issue, which pertains to the reversible constriction of the bronchial tubes and walls.

Sudden severe asthma attack? It’s not always chronic bronchitis

Bronchitis in cats is inflammation of the main airways with various causes. Alternatively, feline asthma—also called reactive airway disease—is a chronic allergic condition causing inflammation of the airway walls, constriction, and recurring breathing difficulties.

Bronchitis is often misdiagnosed as bronchial asthma, which is typically treated with oral or inhaled corticosteroids.

What Causes Chronic Bronchitis in Cats?

You might be wondering, “Why does my cat have bronchitis?”

This condition has several causes, including poorly managed acute bronchitis, airborne contaminants (bacteria or viruses), hypersensitivity disorders like allergies, and even underlying disease. These causes will be discussed in detail in the following sections.

Bacterial infection

Bacterial infections causing bronchitis in cats may involve:

• Bordetella bronchiseptica: infections often occur in high-density environments like shelters or kennels and are transmitted via aerosols (saliva and nasal secretions), direct contact with infected animals, or contaminated objects.
• Mycoplasma spp.: commonly linked to upper respiratory tract disease (URTD), it spreads through direct contact or aerosols from sneezing, saliva, or nasal droplets.
• Chlamydia felis: causes upper respiratory tract infections often accompanied by conjunctivitis (eye inflammation).

Viral infection

Viral infections triggered by the feline herpesvirus (FHV), feline calicivirus (FCV), feline leukemia virus (FeLV), and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) often cause respiratory issues, including difficulty breathing, chronic coughing, and obstruction of a cat's airways.

Rarely, FHV and FCV may lead to lower respiratory issues, including feline bronchitis.

FCV is known to cause interstitial pneumonia in experimental settings and has also been linked to natural pneumonia in cats. FHV, though a rare cause of pneumonia (interstitial and bronchopneumonia), is often diagnosed in debilitated cats and kittens.

Parasitic Infection

Parasitic infections can cause feline bronchitis. Common culprits include:

• Lung worms (Aelurostrongylus abstrusus and Eucoleus aerophilus): after ingestion, the larvae of these lung parasites penetrate the digestive mucosa, migrate to the lungs, and mature into adults, causing inflammation and bronchitis. E. aerophilus can occasionally be transmitted to humans.

• Heartworms (Dirofilaria immitis, Toxocara cati, and Cytauxzoon felis): primarily known for causing heartworm disease, these parasites can also trigger respiratory and systemic issues. Heartworms and Toxocara cati often cause bronchitis through larval migration to the lungs, while Cytauxzoon felis, transmitted by ticks, leads to fatal cytauxzoonosis with interstitial pneumonia.

Fungal infection

Feline bronchitis can also be caused by fungal infections, although these cases are rare. These infections often result in chronic inflammation of the airways, which can lead to bronchitis.

Identifying the specific fungal cause is crucial for determining the appropriate treatment. Here are some of the common fungal infections associated with feline bronchitis:

• Aspergillosis: a respiratory infection caused by Aspergillus species.
• Histoplasmosis: triggered by the fungus Histoplasma capsulatum, which can begin in the lungs and spread to other parts of the body.
• Blastomycosis: a fungal disease caused by Blastomyces dermatitidis, often found in soil or decaying matter.
• Coccidiomycosis: also known as Valley Fever, this is caused by Coccidioides species and primarily affects cats in arid regions.

Allergens

Chronic inhalation of allergens like pollen, dust, cigarette smoke, perfumes, mold, essential oil diffusers, hairspray, air fresheners, or carpet cleaners can trigger bronchitis in sensitive cats. This condition is known as feline allergic bronchitis or bronchial asthma.

Genetic factors

Some cats, particularly Siamese and Himalayan breeds, may have a genetic predisposition to bronchitis. Additionally, an underlying disease can act as a trigger for this condition.

What are the Symptoms of Bronchitis in Felines?

Bronchitis symptoms in cats vary in intensity but are mostly pulmonary. Common signs include:

• Coughing: dry or productive, frequent episodes lasting minutes or occurring seasonally.
• Rapid breathing or respiratory distress: wheezing, rapid or shallow breathing, open-mouth breathing (in severe cases), and effortful inhalation.
• Lethargy and lessened physical exertion: reduced activity and fatigue due to breathing challenges.
• Loss of appetite and weight loss: breathing difficulties may decrease food intake and increase energy use.
• Nasal/eye discharge and fever: seen in cases of infectious bronchitis.

If your pet shows symptoms like coughing, breathing issues, or lethargy, seek immediate medical attention. These signs could indicate bronchitis, pleural effusion, heart disease, or infectious pneumonia. A vet can run diagnostic tests to determine the issue and suggest appropriate treatment.

Contrary to common belief, bronchitis will not resolve on its own. A veterinarian must diagnose and treat the underlying cause. Though chronic bronchitis causes irreversible lung damage and cannot be cured, it can be managed effectively with proper care.

How is Bronchitis Diagnosed in Cats?

Effective management and treatment of bronchitis in cats require identifying the underlying cause.

Diagnosis involves clinical examinations, laboratory tests, and imaging to pinpoint the cause and rule out other respiratory diseases (or some parasitic or bacterial infection) with similar symptoms.

Diagnostic methods and tests used by veterinarians

Medical history and clinical examination

At this stage, the vet gathers detailed information about your cat's medical history, including symptoms, duration, and potential exposure to irritants, fungi, or parasites.

A thorough physical examination is performed, focusing on the respiratory system, using a stethoscope to detect abnormal lung sounds and possibly inflamed airways.

Lab tests

The following tests may be administered to diagnose bronchitis:

• Blood tests: a complete blood count and biochemistry assess your cat’s overall health and can indicate infections or inflammation.
• Parasitological tests: identify pulmonary parasites (lungworms) or intestinal parasites like Toxocara cati that can also set off heartworm disease.
• Serological tests: detect antibodies against specific pathogens, such as heartworms.

Imaging

Imaging tests, such as X-rays (chest radiographs) and CT scans, are crucial for evaluating the lungs and bronchi. They can detect structural changes, inflammation, airway obstruction, excessive secretions, and other abnormalities in the chest.

Special tests

Advanced tests to diagnose lung diseases include bronchoscopy and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL). Both procedures require sedation or general anesthesia.

• Bronchoscopy: an endoscopic procedure to examine the airways. Tissue and secretion samples may also be collected for further analysis.
• Bronchoalveolar Lavage (BAL): a sterile liquid is flushed into the airways and then aspirated to collect cells and secretions for microscopic analysis.

Allergy tests

If cats bronchitis is allergy-related, your vet may recommend allergy testing to identify the specific allergen affecting your cat. This is also done to rule out other diseases in affected cats.

How to Treat Bronchitis in Cats

Since the treatment of bronchitis in cats varies depending on the cause and severity of the disease, it is important to consult a vet for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

Conventional treatment and management of bronchitis therapy in cats depends on several factors, such as:

• Drug treatment: depending on the cause, the vet may prescribe antibiotics, antifungals, anti-inflammatory drugs, bronchodilators, or corticosteroids. Inhalers or nebulizers with corticosteroids may also be recommended.
• Environmental management: use air purifiers or humidifiers to improve air quality, and avoid irritants like cigarette smoke or perfumes that could trigger coughing.
• Diet and supplements: a diet change can strengthen your cat's immune system. Supplements like omega-3 may help reduce airway inflammation.
• Monitoring and checkups: regularly monitor symptoms and take your cat for checkups to allow the vet to adjust the treatment as needed.

6 Natural and Homeopathic Treatment Options for Bronchitis in Cats

#1. Echinacea

Echinacea is known for its immune-boosting properties and its ability to help combat respiratory infections. Studies in dogs suggest it can effectively treat upper respiratory infections. Always use this product as directed by a pet homeopathy expert.

#2. Ginger

Ginger contains active compounds like gingerol and shogaol, which studies suggest have therapeutic effects on respiratory conditions such as bronchitis and asthma. These may help loosen secretions and ease breathing problems.

• Fresh ginger: Grate a small pinch directly into your cat’s food.
• Ginger tea: Soak two slices of fresh ginger in hot water for 10 minutes. Once cooled, add a small amount of the liquid to your cat’s water.

#3. Honey

Honey has antibacterial and antifungal properties that can help relieve coughing, soothe an irritated throat, and reduce inflammation.

You can add a small amount to your cat’s food or water. However, use it sparingly to avoid gastrointestinal issues, and be cautious as some cats may be allergic to the pollen content.

#4. Pineapple

Pineapple may help alleviate bronchitis symptoms due to bromelain, an enzyme with anti-inflammatory and mucolytic properties, and vitamin C, which supports the immune system and combats infection.

• How to use: thinly slice a small piece of fresh pineapple and mix it into your cat’s food. Avoid the hard, stringy core, as it can pose a choking hazard.
• Precautions: limit the amount given, as pineapple’s high sugar content can worsen cough or inflammation and may be unsuitable for cats with diabetes. Avoid canned pineapple, which often contains added sugars.

#5. Turmeric

Turmeric contains curcumin, an active ingredient with anti-inflammatory properties that stimulates white blood cell activity and helps reduce your pet's symptoms.

• Fresh turmeric: add a small pinch of grated turmeric root to your cat's food.
• Turmeric tea: place two slices of turmeric root in boiled water and steep for at least 10 minutes. Let it cool, then add a small amount of the liquid to your cat’s water.

#6. Zumalka's BRONCHIAL CLEAR

BRONCHIAL CLEAR is crafted with high-quality, natural ingredients to provide relief from persistent coughing and support your pet’s breathing and overall lung health. Free from harmful chemicals, it offers a gentle, holistic approach to wellness.

BRONCHIAL CLEAR delivers key benefits, including enhanced respiratory capacity and improved lung health. Its powerful blend of ingredients, such as Glycyrrhiza glabra, Drosera rotundifolia, and Inula helenium, helps soothe airways and ease breathing. Meanwhile, active components like Argentum Nitricum and Carbo Vegetabilis support lung function and reduce irritation.

While BRONCHIAL CLEAR may alleviate your cat’s clinical signs, it’s essential to consult a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment of the underlying cause of bronchitis. Natural remedies can complement professional care but should not replace it.

How to Prevent Bronchitis in Cats

Preventing bronchitis in cats involves reducing the risk of respiratory irritation or infection through thoughtful care, proper management, and improving your cat's environment.

Start by minimizing exposure to common irritating particles such as cigarette smoke, dust, mold, and perfume, as these can inflame the respiratory tract and sensitive airways.

Supporting your cat's immune system with ideal nutrition, proper hygiene, exercise, and stress management is equally important, as is scheduling regular veterinary checkups to catch potential issues early.

By incorporating these practices, you can protect your cat’s respiratory health and ensure a better quality of life.

About the author

Dr. Iuliana Mihai, DVM, MSc, PhD

Iuliana Mihai, DVM, MSc, PhD, is a Bucharest-based veterinary expert specializing in internal medicine and oncology.

Her work has been published in reputable publications such as Veterinary Medicine Journal, Catster.com, Dogster.com, Hepper.com, Meowiz.com, Springnaturals.com, Petkeen.com, and Wilderharrier.com.

She is a malpractice and negligence veterinary consultant and a graduate of The University of Agronomic Sciences and Veterinary Medicine and The Romanian Academy.

Read the complete profile of Dr. Iuliana Mihai, DVM, MSc, PhD (Veterinarian) here.