Feline asthma syndrome in African lions (Panthera leo)

Feline asthma syndrome, previously recognized only in domestic cats, was di agnosed in three captive African lions (Panthera lee), one of which died as a result of the condition. Two of the lions displayed progressive signs fo r 7 yr, including severe bouts of coughing, wheezing, dyspnea, rhonchi, and tachypnea that were most severe during the spring and summer, and the thir d lion displayed acute signs only once. Scattered to diffuse increased inte rstitial markings, peribronchial cuffing, and focal atelectasis were visibl e in radiographs. At necropsy, multiple subpleural bullae, 2--3 cm in diame ter, were scattered throughout the lung tissue. There were thick-walled bro nchi and bronchioles filed with thick grayish mucus, and alveolar spaces we re enlarged with severe, diffuse, banded multifocal areas of alveolar wall fibrosis. The lions had significantly elevated IgE type I immediate hyperse nsitivity responses to recognized aeroallergens. The captive management of lions should address the design and maintenance of allergen-free air suppli es. Ventilation systems should be examined routinely and thoroughly cleaned of any residue. The frequency of examination should increase during the su mmer. Lions and other large cats should be routinely screened for IgE aeroa llergen-specific titers, asthma cases should be treated promptly with predn isolone, and investigations of etiology should be initiated.