Feline asthma affects an estimated 1-5% of cats, causing chronic breathing difficulties and anxiety, but can be well-managed with proper diagnosis and treatment.
Cats with unmanaged asthma experience both chronic discomfort between episodes and acute terror during attacks - the inability to breathe properly is distressing for any sentient animal. Many cats develop anxiety around activities associated with previous attacks. Well-managed feline asthma, however, can allow cats to live comfortable, normal lives. The welfare impact depends almost entirely on owner recognition, proper veterinary diagnosis, and consistent treatment including inhaler training.