Asthma in cats, what is elevated? - briefly
In feline asthma, eosinophils and lymphocytes are commonly elevated in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. This increase reflects the inflammatory response characteristic of this condition.
Asthma in cats, what is elevated? - in detail
Asthma in cats, also known as feline asthma or allergic bronchitis, is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways. When a cat experiences an asthmatic episode, several physiological parameters are elevated due to the body's response to constricted airways and increased mucus production.
One of the primary parameters that is elevated during an asthma attack in cats is the respiratory rate. Normally, a cat's respiratory rate ranges from 20 to 30 breaths per minute. However, during an asthmatic episode, this rate can increase significantly, often exceeding 40 breaths per minute. This rapid breathing is the body's attempt to compensate for reduced oxygen intake due to narrowed airways.
Another key parameter that is elevated in cats with asthma is the heart rate. As the cat struggles to breathe, the heart rate can increase to maintain adequate blood circulation and oxygen supply to vital organs. In a normal state, a cat's heart rate typically ranges from 140 to 220 beats per minute. During an asthmatic episode, the heart rate may rise above this range, sometimes reaching levels that indicate distress or impending respiratory failure.
Additionally, the level of stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline can be elevated in cats with asthma, particularly during an acute attack. These hormones are released by the body in response to perceived threats or physical exertion, preparing the cat for a "fight or flight" reaction. However, in the context of asthma, these hormones may contribute to the inflammation and constriction of the airways, further exacerbating the condition.
The level of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell involved in immune response and inflammation, is often elevated in cats with asthma. Eosinophils play a significant role in the body's response to allergens and irritants that trigger asthmatic episodes. An increase in eosinophil levels indicates that the cat's immune system is actively fighting off an allergen or irritant, which contributes to the inflammation and narrowing of the airways.
In summary, during an asthma attack in cats, several physiological parameters are elevated, including respiratory rate, heart rate, stress hormone levels, and eosinophil counts. These elevations reflect the body's response to constricted airways and increased mucus production, aiming to maintain adequate oxygen supply and combat the underlying irritant or allergen triggering the asthmatic episode.