Many cat owners who thought their cat would never accept having a mask held on their face are astounded when their stubborn feline not only accepts inhaled asthma treatment, but eventually purrs through it.
Terri Damsky was one of them. After hearing about the Aerokat from her asthmatic cat Putter's veterinarian, she wasn't initially optimistic.
"I couldn't even imagine Putter ever allowing me to place and hold a mask over his face twice every day," said Damsky. But after four days of slowly getting Putter used to the mask using the tips outlined in this article, he took to getting his daily puffs like a champ and his coughing stopped within a couple days.
Day One: Introducing the Aerokat Mask to Cats
The key to getting a cat with asthma used to the Aerokat, mask, and metered dose inhaler, is to introduce it slowly in a way that the cat equates with fun. The mask should not immediately be placed on the cat's muzzle on day one. The cat should be allowed to approach the mask and be praised for any interest displayed. Treats can be placed in the mask for the cat to fish out. The mask can be placed near the cat's bed or a small pile of catnip so that the cat associates the mask with these familiar, happy experiences. The cat should be praised and petted during every interaction with the mask.
Day Two: Introducing the Aerokat Chamber
Now the mask can be placed in the chamber and the happy familiarization can continue with the chamber being held by the cat owner. When treats are placed inside the mask for the cat to retrieve, the chamber and mask should be held in front of the cat's face as it will be during puff administration. The chamber and mask can be placed near the cat's food bowl while she eats, and rubbed on the cat to get her scent on it.
Today an attempt can be made to place the mask on the cat's face for just one or two seconds, immediately removed, and a treat and praise given. This can be done a couple times throughout the day, but should not be pushed as it is still early in the training process.
Day Three: Introducing the Sound of a Puff from a Metered Dose Inhaler
Some cats might be startled by new noises. So on day three, when the cat is already used to the chamber and masks and readily interacts with it for treats and praise, the Flovent, Ventolin, or Albuterol canister should be activated while held within a foot or two of the cat. Hopefully, the cat will be so involved in the happy treat canister (the Aerokat mask), that the sound of the puff will not faze him.
Today the mask may be placed on the cat's muzzle for 5-7 seconds, immediately followed by treats and praise, a couple times throughout the day. The chamber should be treated like the amazing, wonderful, treat factory that it is.
Day Four: Assume the Position for Asthma Treatments
Daily puff treatments for feline asthma should be a routine of location and time, as followed by Damsky. "I puff him every time in the same place and always follow with praise and treats."
On day four, hopefully the cat is used to having the mask placed on his face for a few quick seconds and is then given a treat. A spot should now be chosen where treatment will take place. Within arm's reach will need to be the Aerokat chamber and mask, the inhaler, a moistened cloth or paper towel to wipe off the cat's face after puffs, and treats.
During treatment, some cats are cradled like a baby during puffs. Many cats sit on the floor in between the administer's legs. Some sit on a table in front of the standing administrator. By standing or sitting behind the cat, he will not be able to back up to get away from the mask, and putting an arm around the cat can keep paws down if the cat tries to paw the mask away from his face.
If the cat is doing well with the mask, a dose may be attempted on day four. For dosing suggestions, read Treating Feline Asthma with the Aerokat Inhaler.
The Aerokat Treatment Procedure
- Shake the inhaler canister for 15 seconds immediately prior to every puff.
- Place the mask over the cat's nose and mouth and depress the inhaler. A soft seal is all that is needed around the muzzle, not an airtight one. The chamber is designed to hold the medicine and be drawn out by the cat's inhalations.
- Hold the mask on the cat's muzzle and count to at least ten. Newer Aerokat chambers have a convenient flap built in that moves back and forth with the cat's inhales and exhales to easily count breaths. With this model, count 10-12 breaths.
- Gently wipe the cat's nose and cheeks with the damp towel to clean off residual medication.
- Repeat from step one if needed.
- Rinse off the mask after every puffing session. Clean the chamber once or twice per month.
Many cats will begin purring through treatment after they get used to the puffing sessions. Some will lightly or moderately protest often or once in a while. Keeping a loose, flexible hold of the cat and chamber will help ensure that the cat continues to receive medication through such protests. Here is a video example of a cat lightly protesting asthma treatment with the Aerokat, but purring at the same time.
For cats who protest more strongly, wrapping the cat in a towel can be helpful. Should the cat get the mask off its face, the caregiver may calmly place back and continue counting on.
Caregivers treating cats with asthma should stay positive and persistent, avoiding frustration to keep training running smoothly.
Related Article:
Feline Asthma: Treating Coughing and Wheezing Cats Safely and Affordably
Further Reading:
www.FritzTheBrave.com
Leigh Peterson - Leigh Peterson is a pets writer, pet sitter, professional singer and internet marketer specializing in online PR.
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