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Albuterol for Pets: Asthma, Bronchospasm, Airway Relief & Breathing

Published on September 10, 2024
Updated on November 5, 2025
Reviewed by Petco's Veterinarian Team

Albuterol is a bronchodilator used most commonly in the acute treatment of bronchospasm and cough secondary to asthma in cats and horses.

Summary

Used For:

Bronchospasms, asthma, cough, reversible obstructive airway disease

Brands:

Proventil, Ventolin

Species:

Cats, horses, and less commonly dogs

Drug type:

Bronchodilator

Prescription required:

Yes

Pregnancy and lactation:

Albuterol may be teratogenic and delay labor. It is not known whether albuterol is excreted in milk.

Side effects:

Increased heart rate, tremors, dilated pupils, excitement, dizziness, restlessness

General description

Albuterol is a bronchodilator that relaxes the smooth muscles of the airways and improves breathing. It is used in the treatment of bronchospasm and cough secondary to and bronchoconstriction in obstructive airway disease.

Uses

Asthma in cats and horses, obstructive airway disease in dogs.

How it works

Albuterol works by relaxing the bronchial smooth muscle and opening airways making it easier for the pet to breath. It can be administered orally or via inhalation.

Dosage

Dogs: 0.02 – 0.05 milligrams per kilogram of body weight by mouth every 8- 12 hours

Cats: 1 puff (90 micrograms total dose) per cat via inhalation/metered spray as needed; not for long-term use.

Horses: 2 to 3 puffs (180 – 270 micrograms total dose) via inhalation/metered spray.

Forms

Tablets: 2, 4, 8 milligram tablets.

Oral syrup: 2 milligrams per 5 milliliters.

Albuterol inhalation solution for nebulization: 0.21, 0.42, 0.83 milligrams per milliliter

Albuterol aerosol solution canisters delivering 90 micrograms albuterol per actuation.

Storage information & handling

Stored at room temperature protected from moisture and light, store in original container. Shake aerosol solution well before using.

What results can I expect?

Albuterol should open up the airways and make breathing easier, as well as decrease cough.

Missed Dosage

Not applicable as albuterol is not for long-term use.

Overdose / acute toxicity

Overdose is possible and the severity is dose dependent. May see abnormal heart rhythms and rates, high blood pressure, high body temperature, vomiting, excitement, dilated pupils, or low blood potassium levels.

Side effects

May include:

  • Increased heart rate
  • Tremors
  • Dilated pupils
  • Excitement
  • Dizziness
  • Nervousness/restlessness
  • Increased sweating

Contraindications

*Do not use in animals with a known hypersensitivity to albuterol.

Drug interactions

Consult your veterinarian before using albuterol with any other medications, vitamins or supplements.

Sympathomimetic drugs, beta blockers, tricyclic antidepressants, monoamine oxidase inhibitors, and gas anesthetics may interact with albuterol.

Precaution

Use with caution in patients with:

  • Diabetes mellitus
  • Hyperthyroidism
  • High blood pressure
  • Seizures
  • Heart disease
  • Abnormal heart rhythms

Laboratory considerations

Monitor potassium levels in the blood.

Sources

  • Plumb’s Veterinary Drug Handbook
  • VIN Veterinary Drug Handbook

Manufacturer information

Disclaimer
The information contained on this page is for educational purposes only. This medication should only be given under the advice of a veterinarian who has examined your pet under the laws applicable to your state of residence.

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