Inhalant glucocorticoids have demonstrated efficacy in reducing airway inflammation in asthmatic cats and may be an alternative to systemic therapy.27 Inhalants appear to result in fewer endocrinologic and immunologic side effects as compared with oral or injectable steroids. Although inhaled glucocorticoids may be an appealing alternative, their expense could be a deterrent.8
Inhalants are administered by an MDI attached to a spacer device and facemask; see the literature for product information and use.27,28
Clinically effective absorption can be delayed, with optimal clinical effects not realized for days, possibly up to 1–2 weeks.
In moderately affected cats, concurrent administration of prednisolone at 0.5–1 mg/kg PO q12h tapered over 2–3 weeks can allow time for maximum inhalant effect.29,30
Caution: Aerosol inhalant steroids are not recommended for emergency management of status asthmaticus because of delayed effect. Instead, a fast-acting ß2-receptor agonist is recommended (see Bronchodilators).29,30