An online survey was distributed worldwide to cat owners caring for cats with a chronic cough. Only cats reported to have feline lower airway disease (FLAD) were included.

A total of 153 complete responses were analyzed.

Glucocorticoids and bronchodilators were the predominantly prescribed therapeutics for 140/153 (92%) and 80/153 (52%) of FLAD cats, respectively.

Oral and inhalant administration routes were reported most commonly: glucocorticoids (64% oral and 75% inhalant) and bronchodilators (21% oral and 88% inhalant).

Almost half (43%) of owners reported adverse effects secondary to glucocorticoid administration, the most frequent being polyphagia (26%) and polydipsia (21%).

Only 10% of owners reported bronchodilator-associated side effects, with restlessness (9%) being the most common.

Difficulties giving glucocorticoid or bronchodilator tablets orally were reported for 33% and 71% of owners, respectively.

Glucocorticoid or bronchodilator inhalant therapies were difficult to administer for 28% and 31% of owners, respectively.

Frequency and severity of coughing were significantly lower after at least 2 months of treatment.

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Online survey to determine client perceptions of feline chronic lower airway disease management: response to therapy, side effects and challenges encountered