The use of metered dose inhalers in the treatment of feline asthma

Feline asthma is one of the most commonly diagnosed respiratory ailments of cats. Traditionally, feline asthma has been managed with oral corticosteroids to decrease underlying inflammation and brochodilators (selective beta2 adrenergic agonists or methylxanthines) to reverse smooth muscle contraction. Over the past few years, veterinarians have adopted the use of metered dose inhalers (MDIs) for delivery of medications directly into feline airways. Both corticosteroids and selective beta2 adrenergic agonists are available as MDI preparations. The benefits of aerosolized therapy include increased drug concentration at the site of action and decreased systemic absorption, leading to few side effects. In addition, the faster onset of action facilitated by the aerosolized delivery of bronchodilators offers owners an in-home treatment for acute asthmatic attacks, reducing emergency trips to the veterinarian or helping to stabilize the patient during transport. Despite the promise of inhaled therapies in the treatment of feline asthma, clinical trials are needed to establish their safety and efficacy in cats