Anthracosis in a cat exposed to smoke

Abstract A middle‐aged adult cat was presented for a chronic cough. Diagnostic imaging revealed a generalised mild bronchial pattern. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid cytology revealed macrophage‐rich inflammation, with fine intracytoplasmic black pigmentary material consistent with inhaled particles of carbon. Questioning of the owner revealed that the cat was exposed to smoke from both a heating fuel source (indoor wood burner) and cigarettes within a relatively confined living space. Clinical signs were partially controlled by inhaled corticosteroids. This is the first report of suspected feline anthracosis in a domestic cat that is not associated with urban pollution.