Flovent (Fluticasone) HFA Inhaler

What is Flovent HFA for cats and dogs?

Flovent HFA (fluticasone propionate) is an inhaled corticosteroid that veterinarians commonly prescribe for feline asthma and chronic bronchitis in cats, and for some airway conditions in dogs. Delivered straight to the airways through a pet inhaler spacer, it calms the chronic inflammation behind coughing, wheezing and laboured breathing — with far less medication reaching the rest of the body than oral steroids.

How Flovent works for pets

Fluticasone is a maintenance anti-inflammatory: used every day, it steadily reduces airway swelling and mucus so flare-ups become less frequent and less severe. It is not a rescue inhaler — for sudden breathing crises your vet will typically also prescribe a fast-acting bronchodilator such as Ventolin (salbutamol). Expect the full effect of Flovent to build over 1–2 weeks of daily use.

Strengths and dosing

Flovent HFA is supplied as 50 mcg, 125 mcg and 250 mcg metered inhalers (labelled 44/110/220 mcg in the US — same strengths, different labelling convention). Cats and dogs can't coordinate with an inhaler on their own, so it's given through a spacer chamber with a fitted mask — the AeroKat for cats or AeroDawg for dogs. Your veterinarian sets the strength and number of puffs; follow your prescription exactly.

Safety and side effects

Because the medication goes to the lungs rather than the bloodstream, side effects are generally milder than with oral steroids. Wipe your pet's muzzle after use and rinse the mask regularly. Don't stop daily use abruptly without talking to your vet, even when symptoms improve.

Frequently asked questions

Why does the US label say 110 mcg but mine says 125 mcg?

Canada and the US label their inhalers differently: Canada states the metered dose (125 mcg), the US states the delivered dose (110 mcg). 50 = 44, 125 = 110, 250 = 220 — the same medication, active ingredient, and strength are marketed with different number conventions in both countries.

How do I give a cat an inhaler?

With an AeroKat spacer: shake the inhaler, seat it in the chamber, hold the mask gently over your cat's nose and mouth, press once, and let your cat take 7–10 breaths. Most cats accept it within a week or two of positive-reinforcement practice.

Is Flovent a rescue treatment for an asthma attack?

No — it's daily maintenance therapy. Ask your vet about a rescue bronchodilator plan for emergencies.

Do I need a prescription?

Yes. A licensed pharmacist verifies your vet's prescription before dispensing — upload your Rx here.

Prescription required. Flovent is prescribed for pets at your veterinarian's discretion (extra-label); this information is not a substitute for veterinary advice. All trademarks are the property of their respective owners, including GlaxoSmithKline (GSK).