or no?

Experienced and professional animal trainer provide their insights in answering this question :
A. No you never want to use medicine intended for humans in animals. The dosage could be wrong and something could go wrong. If you have concerns that the medicine isn’t working you need to bring this to your vets attention. It’s their job to make sure your cat is getting better so hold them to it

How to Identify Common Pet Problems ?

Our sources include academic articles, blog posts, and personal essays from experienced pet care professionals :

What should I do if my cat has an asthma attack? In the event of an attack, stay calm, give any medication prescribed by your vet and ensure they are in a quiet, cool area with good ventilation. If your cat is in distress and is in the grip of a severe attack, then contact your vet straight away.
This medication should take effect within 1 to 2 hours. An acclimation and training period may be required before using the delivery device with the medication. Slow introduction to the device with positive rewards such as praise, treats, and petting may encourage its acceptance by your cat.
Short-acting β2 agonists (eg, albuterol, terbutaline) are widely available and appropriate for “rescue” therapy. Administration of albuterol can be achieved via a metered-dose inhaler attached to an aerosol chamber with a face mask (FIGURE 1) (Aerokat; trudellmed.com) or as a nebulized solution (TABLE 1).
What Is The Life Expectancy Of Cats With Asthma? Unfortunately, there is no `cure` for asthma; it is a lifelong condition. However, cats living with asthma can lead normal and active lives, provided they get proper treatment and their asthma is well managed.
In the case of cats with asthma or allergies, sufficiently humid air has the added benefit of improving breathing. These various conditions are exacerbated by dry air. Heating systems of all kinds tend to lead to drier air, making this more of a concern in the winter months.
It is recommended to administer 1 to 3 puffs once every 12 to 24 hours as needed for rescue therapy. Albuterol sulfate inhalation solution is designed to be delivered via a nebulizer. Several concentrations of this solution are available.
One to two puffs (according to your vet`s instructions) of the MDI are administered into the chamber and then the face mask is held gently over the cat`s face so it can breathe in the medication for typically 10-15 seconds. This is usually performed twice daily.
While specific asthma-causing agents typically remain unidentified, suspected allergens include tobacco smoke, dusty kitty litter; vapors from household cleaning solutions and aerosol sprays; pollen from trees, weeds and grass; mold and mildew; dust mites; smoke from fireplaces and candles; and even some foods.
The Prognosis for Cats with Asthma

Asthma in cats is an incurable and often progressive condition, which means that if your cat has asthma, he or she will likely have periodic flare-ups that range in severity from mild to life-threatening.

Breathing difficulties can affect cats of any breed or age, and the problem can quickly become life-threatening. If your cat is displaying signs of respiratory problems you should take them to your local vet, or out of hours your nearest Vets Now, as soon as possible.
Albuterol is a type of bronchodilator used in many human inhalers that can also be used for cats.
Fortunately, most asthmatic cats respond well to medication, but in severe cases/cases that don`t respond to treatment, asthma can shorten life expectancy. Asthma in cats tends to develop at a young age (around or before 4-5 years old), and is more common in Siamese and Oriental breeds.
Lots of people with asthma are allergic to animals. Some can keep their pets — and others can`t. It depends on a person`s asthma and if having a pet (like a dog, cat, or even a parrot!) makes symptoms worse.
High levels of humidity means the air is full of moisture and often very stagnant, which when inhaled by asthma sufferers, can trigger your asthma symptoms. It also creates an optimal environment for mold and bacteria growth, which can affect your asthma.
Additionally, indoor humidity levels should be 30 to 50 percent, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. This level of humidity is less likely to cause asthma symptoms.
If you use too much

If you use your inhaler too much, you may notice that your heart beats more quickly than normal and that you feel shaky. These side effects are not dangerous, as long as you do not also have chest pain. They usually go away within 30 minutes or a few hours at most.

Asthma and bronchitis are seen most commonly in cats two to eight years of age, and Siamese cats seem to be at higher risk. Overweight and obese cats are also at greater risk for developing chronic respiratory disease.
Inhaled bronchodilators are normally prescribed with a dose of 1-2 puffs per treatment5, depending on severity of symptoms and size of the cat. Most metered dose inhalers hold 200 puffs of medication. Your vet will indicate when the medication is to be used and how many puffs to give your cat for each treatment.
Common oral corticosteroids prescribed for cat asthma include prednisone, prednisolone, and methylprednisolone. Prednisolone has higher bioavailability in cats and is generally preferred over prednisone2. Methylprednisolone (Depo-Medrol) is also a common injectable form of corticosteroid used to treat cat asthma3.
Cats with asthma may benefit from a grain-free canned, freeze dried, dehydrated, or raw food diet. This diet can help to reduce inflammation and improve lung function. Grain-free foods are also easier for cats to digest, which can help reduce stress on the lungs.
Either inhaled steroids or oral steroids are used to control your cat`s asthma long-term. Bronchodilators are not used alone to control asthma because they merely prevent airway constriction and do not control the inflammatory response to environmental allergens that causes disease.
Allergic Asthma Triggers

Urine – Your cat`s urine contains a protein called Felis Domesticus 1 (Fel D1) which can trigger asthma symptoms in some people when inhaled. Saliva – Kitty`s saliva also contains Fel D1 as well as another protein called albumin which can be an issue for some people who suffer from asthma.

A chest X-ray is necessary to rule out other diseases. While a chest X-ray may not be able to show whether you have asthma per se, it can confirm if another condition is responsible for the symptoms.
Water consumption is an important part of flushing debris from your cat`s system and preventing blockage; try offering them water from a drinking fountain instead of a bowl, flavoring a second water bowl with some tuna juice and switching them to canned food if they currently eat dry food.

Relevant Questions and Answers :

the most relevant questions and answers related to your specific issue

Q. My cat continues to scratch on furniture and carpets. He has plenty of scratching posts around the house. Please help!
ANSWER : A. Scratching is a natural behavior in cats that can be frequently frustrating for pet owners who want to keep their furniture from being shredded on a constant basis. The texture of furniture and carpet is very appealing to cats and this why they frequently choose to spend their time on this activity as opposed to playing with their own cat toys. Here are some suggestions to help curb this unwanted behavior:

1. Purchase a cat scratching post or cat tree that is covered in carpeted or textured material. Place it in an appealing spot that your cat would be inclined to spend time (eg. in the sun). You can also place catnip on the scratching post or cat tree to make your cat even more interested in the new object.

2. You can utilize double sided tape on the ends of the furniture because you cat will not like the sticky feeling and will learn to not scratch in that region. Use the tape that has a lighter adhesive in order to prevent any permanent damage. Other materials, such as aluminum foil or bubble wrap can also be placed on the furniture to discourage the scratching.

3. Keep nails trimmed short by either learning to do this on your own at home or using a veterinary technician, or groomer. Nails can usually be trimmed every 6-8 weeks.

4. Redirect the unwanted behavior. If your cat begins scratching, use a favorite or new toy to distract the cat from the scratching. Give your cat positive praise for not scratching.

5. As a last resort you can use a spray bottle full of water to spritz your cat when he or she is scratching inappropriately at your furniture. Generally, cats do not like water and this will discourage them from continuing the behavior.

Have patience with your cat because it can takes time to understand this is an unwanted behavior and that furniture is not another toy for them to use. You can always consult your veterinary or veterinary behaviorist to help with ideas or further solutions to this problem.

Read Full Q/A … : I found Pickle on

Q. Why do cats meow?
ANSWER : A. Cat parents often wish they could better understand what their favorite feline friends want or desire. A cat’s meow can be interpreted in many different ways and can indicate an array of feelings and needs. Here are some of the most common reasons for your cat’s vocalizations:

1. Greeting- Many cats will meow as a greeting when you enter your home or walk into a room. Cats will also meow at another cat or animal in the household to extend a hello and acknowledge the other animal’s presence.

2. Attention – An exuberant meow followed by leg rubbing or another attention seeking behavior may indicate your cat is looking for some quality time spent together. Some petting or rubbing behind the ears may be in order.

3. Hunger – A meowing cat is often a hungry cat. This is one of the most common reasons for a cat to vocalize to their owners. A cat will meow to get your attention at feeding times or even when they want extra food.

4. Sickness – A sick or hurt cat may begin to meow excessively, warranting a visit to the veterinarian. There are numerous reasons for a cat in distress to meow—whether it is related to an upset stomach, an injured leg or a urinary blockage. These meows should be carefully investigated.

5. Entering or leaving – Most cats will vocalize when they want to be let in or out of a room. You may notice when you are in the bathroom or behind the closed door of a room that your cat begins to meow, scratches at the door, and often reaches its paw under the door. This is a clear indication that the cat wants to be where you are.

6. Angry – An agitated cat may meow to warn their owner or another household pet that they are upset and would like to be left alone. This angry meow may increase in sound volume as the cat becomes more stressed or agitated. Often a cat will exhibit this type of meow at the veterinary office when they are unhappy with their examination or restraint.

Each feline is different and so are their vocalizations. Learn to understand the variety of meows your cat uses on a daily basis. This will help you develop a better relationship with your cat and help them live a more trusting and happier life.

Q. My cat will not stop going to the toilet on my carpet, bed, washing pile etc.. Also uses its litter box occasionally? I don’t understand why this is?
ANSWER : A. Inappropriate elimination in cats is often a behavioral problem rather than a medical problem, so the first step is to have him seen by your vet to eliminate any kind of illness or condition as a cause for his eliminating outside the box.
If medical issues are ruled out, take a look at other reasons. Has there been a lot of unusual activity? Has you cat been left at home or boarded? Is the litterbox in a busy area? Has anything happened recently in this area to make him reluctant to use it again? Is there another cat, pet or person that is preventing him from getting to the box? Have you changed it from a hooded to an open box, or vice versa? Is it big enough? Have you changed the type or brand of litter? Is there something attractive about the spot he uses? Cats dislike disturbances to their routine and may act out to express their dissatisfaction.
The general rule is one litter box per cat in the household, plus one. That way each cat can have a place of their own to go in case the box is occupied or another cat has claimed it as territory. They should be scooped daily, if not more often and changed completely weekly, washed with soap and water only. You can offer one kind of litter in one box and another kind in another to see if there is a preference. I don’t recommend the crystals, it makes a hissing sound when wet that startles some cats and make them reluctant to use it again. The litter boxes should be located in a quiet, low-traffic area so that the cat can use them in peace. Make sure any other pets or people aren’t giving them a hard time around or in the litter box. It may take some investigation and experimentation to find your cat’s preference and accommodate him so that everyone is satisfied with the situation. And, when cleaning up pet accidents, don’t use any cleaner containing ammonia. This leaves behind a scent similar to urine.

Q. Our cat of six years has on two separate occasions has defecated on the living room rug and recently pee’d on the skirt of the Christmas tree.
ANSWER : A. Inappropriate elimination in cats is often a behavioral problem rather than a medical problem, so the first step is to have him seen by your vet to eliminate any kind of illness or condition as a cause for his eliminating outside the box.

If medical issues are ruled out, take a look at other reasons. Has there been a lot of unusual activity? Has you cat been left at home or boarded? Is the litterbox in a busy area? Has anything happened recently in this area to make him reluctant to use it again? Is there another cat, pet or person that is preventing him from getting to the box? Have you changed it from a hooded to an open box, or vice versa? Is it big enough? Have you changed the type or brand of litter? Is there something attractive about the spot he uses? Cats dislike disturbances to their routine and may act out to express their dissatisfaction.

The general rule is one litter box per cat in the household, plus one. That way each cat can have a place of their own to go in case the box is occupied or another cat has claimed it as territory. They should be scooped daily, if not more often and changed completely weekly, washed with soap and water only. You can offer one kind of litter in one box and another kind in another to see if there is a preference. I don’t recommend the crystals, it makes a hissing sound when wet that startles some cats and make them reluctant to use it again. The litter boxes should be located in a quiet, low-traffic area so that the cat can use them in peace. Make sure any other pets or people aren’t giving them a hard time around or in the litter box. It may take some investigation and experimentation to find your cat’s preference and accommodate him so that everyone is satisfied with the situation. And, when cleaning up pet accidents, don’t use any cleaner containing ammonia. This leaves behind a scent similar to urine.

Q. My cat started to pee outside the litter box. What should I do?
ANSWER : A. Inappropriate bathroom use in cats is often a behavioral problem rather than a medical problem, so the first step is to have him seen by your vet to eliminate any kind of illness or condition as a cause for his defecating outside the box.

Once medical issues are ruled out, it’s time to take a look at other explanations. Has there been a lot of activity that wasn’t normal? Were you away and your cat was left at home or boarded? Is the litterbox located in a busy area? Has anything happened recently in this area to make him reluctant to use it again? Is there another cat, pet, or person that is preventing him from getting to the box? Have you changed it from a hooded to an open box, or vice versa? Have you changed the brand of litter or kind? Or is there something about the spot he has chosen to use that is attracting him in some way? Cats dislike disturbances to their routine and may act out as a way of expressing their dissatisfaction.

The general rule of thumb is one litter box per cat in the household, plus one. That way each cat can have a place of their own to go in case the box is occupied or another cat has claimed it as territory. They should be scooped at least daily, if not more often and changed completely on a weekly basis, and washed with soap and water.

You can also offer one kind of litter in one box and another kind in another to see if there is a preference. I don’t recommend the crystal kind, since it makes a hissing sound when wet that can startle some cats and make them reluctant to use it again.

The litter boxes should be located in a quiet, low-traffic area so that the cat can use them in peace. Make sure other pets or people aren’t giving them a hard time around or in the litterbox. It may take some investigation and experimentation to find your cat’s preference and accommodate him so that everyone is satisfied with the situation.

Q. I have a cat that defecates in the litter box but always urinates outside the box. It is very annoying.
ANSWER : A. Inappropriate elimination in cats is often a behavioral problem rather than a medical problem, so the first step is to have him seen by your vet to eliminate any kind of illness or condition as a cause for his eliminating outside the box.

If medical issues are ruled out, take a look at other reasons. Has there been a lot of unusual activity? Has you cat been left at home or boarded? Is the litterbox in a busy area? Has anything happened recently in this area to make him reluctant to use it again? Is there another cat, pet or person that is preventing him from getting to the box? Have you changed it from a hooded to an open box, or vice versa? Is it big enough? Have you changed the type or brand of litter? Is there something attractive about the spot he uses? Cats dislike disturbances to their routine and may act out to express their dissatisfaction.

The general rule is one litter box per cat in the household, plus one. That way each cat can have a place of their own to go in case the box is occupied or another cat has claimed it as territory. They should be scooped daily, if not more often and changed completely weekly, washed with soap and water only. You can offer one kind of litter in one box and another kind in another to see if there is a preference. I don’t recommend the crystals, it makes a hissing sound when wet that startles some cats and make them reluctant to use it again. The litter boxes should be located in a quiet, low-traffic area so that the cat can use them in peace. Make sure any other pets or people aren’t giving them a hard time around or in the litter box. It may take some investigation and experimentation to find your cat’s preference and accommodate him so that everyone is satisfied with the situation. And, when cleaning up pet accidents, don’t use any cleaner containing ammonia. This leaves behind a scent similar to urine.

Q. My cat has asthma and I am giving him medicine. He is still having trouble breathing and I am tempted to use my wife’s albuterol on him. Yes or no?
ANSWER : A. No you never want to use medicine intended for humans in animals. The dosage could be wrong and something could go wrong. If you have concerns that the medicine isn’t working you need to bring this to your vets attention. It’s their job to make sure your cat is getting better so hold them to it

Q. My recently acquired Sphinx cat has an unusual and somewhat anti-social habit. She suckles on one of her nipples. Why does she do this?
ANSWER : A. Some cats can become very stressed when introduced to a new home, and may exhibit some behaviors that are used to help them calm down. Most commonly, kneading objects such as bedding or people, or purring loudly are used as ways to calm down. However, some cats may calm by using a suckle response, attempting to nurse on objects such as blankets and sweaters, other pets, or even engaging in self-suckling. While usually harmless, this can sometimes indicate a medical issue such as a hormonal imbalance, or may cause your cat to begin lactating. If this does occur, making a checkup appointment with your local vet is best.

If the behavior is stress related, giving other ways for your cat to calm down may help. Make sure to provide a space for her where she can run and hide if needed, away from activity, new people and new pets. Leaving a comfy bed, some food and water and even a litter box in a room away from the main activity can give her a place to escape and settle down some. As she gets more used to you and your family, she will become more social. There are also commercial pheromone diffusers that can be used in collar form or plugged into a wall outlet. These release a calming pheromone to cats, and can help cats that are very stressed settle down during a transition period.