wheezy cough/gagging

[kiwis]

Our cat has had a persistent wheezy cough with a sometimes gagging response..so far with no vomitting. Also, picking him up will sometimes cause these symtoms to occur. we took him to the vet last october(2008) and the diagnosis was suspected asthma. He was given Prednisone 5mg for ten days, then with usual 10 day reduction schedule. he was also given Clavamox 62.5 tabs 1 orally every 12 hours until gone (20 days). No improvement was noticed and these symtoms seem to be getting a little worse and more frequent.

Please help with further advice. We've already spent alot of money and just need some direction.

thanks,

Denise

[Thomas Dock, CVJ, Vet. Technician]

Did your veterinarian test for heartworms in your kitty?

[Jennifer Mathis, D.V.M.]

I agree with Tom. Please test for heartworms.  A cat that is negative for heartworms may still have heartworm associated respiratory disease though.  In a recent study, 30% of the cats positive for heartworms were reported to be indoor only cats - so all cats are susceptible.  A heart ultrasound would also help diagnose the problem and determine the best treatment.  This heart ultrasound can also look for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM)- a common heart problem in cats.  Our office cat developed signs of this at age 8, but not much cough was present at that time.  Chest xrays are also beneficial to know, as they look at the lungs and the heart, but cats with HCM have normal hearts on xrays.  Respiratory problems can be serious, so please try to see a veterinarian very soon.  I wish the best for your kitty.