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My cat was in attic insulation. Is her wheezing serious?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Russian Blue | Female | spayed | 8 years and 11 months old | 8.5 lbs

Hi vets! My kitty Mae snuck into an unfinished attic-like area of my new home. We couldn't get her out of there for a good while. Finally had to hunt for her as she didn't want to come out. Anyway, there is exposed pink insulation in the walls. I don't know if she came in direct contact with the insulation. But she was definitely in there long enough to have been exposed to fibers in the air? I didn't even think much of it until today when I heard her wheezing/coughing. Is this something she

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Anna M., DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 16th, 2021

Hi there! Looks like your question got cut off but I'll do my best to answer. Fiberglass insulation is pretty common, and being in the general vicinity isn't too concerning, so I wouldn't necessarily panic based on your description..... however, if Mae was crawling directly in the insulation, or sleeping on it, etc then it could cause problems. Those little glass particles in the insulation can cause irritation to exposed skin if a pet rubs up against it or walks on it, and if she was spending any significant time breathing right next to the insulation (such as sleeping on it) it could definitely cause some irritation in her lungs.

The safest bet would definitely be to have a vet take a look, and they may want to take x-rays to make sure her lungs look ok. Respiratory issues in cats are always worth erring on the safe side.

Hope this helps!

4Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on August 13th, 2023
Hi Yasmin, thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about your kitty. Poor guy! Some types of insulation, such as fiberglass, can be irritating to the respiratory system and cause problems. If he is having symptoms such as a cough and sneezing, I do think it's worth getting him checked out again by a vet, and that may include x-rays. I hope this helps!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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