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Can I give my cat albuterol for an asthma attack before seeing a vet?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 1 year and 9 months old

My cat, Spectre is approximately a year and a half old. 2 months ago she started having asthma attacks. We’ve been to the ER vet once and she had two monthly 4 week steroid shots. It should have been time to take her back this Friday, but she is having an attack right now. So far, she hasn’t gotten to the point where she is stretched out trying to elongate everything to breathe, but it got really bad the first time. would it be safe to use an albuterol inhaler until we can get her to the vet?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Dayna, DVM, CVA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on January 2nd, 2018

I am so sorry that Spectre is going through this. Albuterol 90 mcg usually just 1 puff is used in cats in times of respiratory distress. I would not wait and I would get her into see an emergency veterinarian immediately. The albuterol will wear off and when it does she needs to either be in an oxygen cage or have enough steroids on board to calm her airways. I would encourage you to discuss an Aerokat mask with your veterinarian as these can be really useful in administering the albuterol to kitties. Also an inhaled steroid may be a good idea as well. Best of luck and I hope she improves soon. Thank you for using Pet Coach.

4Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on August 4th, 2017
I'm really sorry to hear about this situation. We usually try to stay away from advising medication without seeing the patient, but if Frodo is having trouble breathing, then it's important to treat this quickly.

If you have an albuterol inhaler, then this can be used, but you need to be sure that this is in-fact albuterol. You will need an appropriate spacer and mask (e.g., Aerokat®) and only administer one puff. May repeat every 30 minutes for up to 4 to 6 hours in emergencies.

Keep in mind that this is a rescue drug and is not intended for long-term usage. I understand that the vet can be expensive, but Frodo will need long-term medication. You can explain to your vet that money is a concern and hopefully they can help you find a less-expensive option treating long-term.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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