Cat Coughing:Causes, Symptoms & When to See a Vet

Coughing in cats might sound like a minor concern, but it can sometimes point to an underlying issue that needs attention. Whether it is an occasional dry hack or a persistent wheeze, feline coughing deserves a closer look to understand what is going on. This guide explores the common causes, symptoms, and actions cat parents can take to help their furry friends breathe easily.

How to Respond When Your Cat Starts Coughing?

When a cat begins to cough, it is important to pay attention to how often it happens and what the cough sounds like. Did it happen just once, or is your cat coughing more frequently? Occasional coughing might not be alarming, especially if it stops quickly. But repeated or intense coughing episodes should never be ignored.

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Here is what a pet parent can do:

• Monitor the situation: Note how often the cat coughs and whether there are any other symptoms like sneezing, wheezing, or lethargy.

• Check for triggers: Dust, smoke, strong scents, or allergens in the environment can sometimes cause temporary coughing.
• Avoid self-diagnosing: While it is helpful to be informed, only a veterinarian can accurately determine the cause.
• Schedule a vet visit: If the coughing continues for more than a day or seems severe, it is time to consult a vet.

How Long Can a Cat Cough Last?

A cough in cats can last for a short time or become a long-term issue, depending on the underlying cause. For example,

• Infections or allergic reactions can lead to coughing that lasts several days or more.
• Mild irritants might cause coughing that stops within a day or two.
• Persistent health conditions like asthma or heart disease may cause a cat to cough regularly or over an extended period.

If a cat has been coughing for more than 48 hours, especially if it is worsening or affecting appetite and activity levels, veterinary care is essential.

Is It a Hairball or a Cough?

One of the most common questions cat owners ask is whether their feline is coughing or just trying to pass a hairball. Although they may appear alike, coughing and hairball episodes are quite distinct.

Hairball behavior often includes:

• Gagging or retching
• A crouched posture
• Eventual expulsion of a hairball

Coughing, on the other hand, is typically:

• A dry or wheezy sound
• Often without vomiting
• Associated with breathing difficulties or nasal discharge

If the cat is coughing but nothing is brought up, it is more likely a respiratory issue than a hairball.

Common Causes of Coughing in Cats:

Coughing is not a disease itself but a symptom of something else. Here are some potential culprits:

Asthma

Asthma is a frequent reason behind long-term coughing in cats. It can be triggered by irritants like dust, smoke, pollen, or household cleaners. Cats dealing with asthma might also experience wheezing or shortness of breath.

 Respiratory Infections

 Affecting the upper or lower airways, typically from viruses or bacteria, can cause coughing, often accompanied by sneezing or a runny nose.

Lung worm

This parasitic infection affects the lungs and airways. Symptoms of lungworm in cats include:

• Persistent coughing
• Wheezing or labored breathing
• Weight loss and fatigue.

Lungworm is usually contracted through hunting or contact with infected snails, slugs, or contaminated water sources.

Allergies

Cats, much like people, can develop allergies to things in their environment, which may irritate their respiratory system and trigger coughing.

Heart Disease

Coughing may sometimes signal heart-related issues, particularly in senior cats. This is usually accompanied by other signs like lethargy, difficulty breathing, or a swollen abdomen.

Symptoms to Watch for Alongside Coughing

It is important to look at the bigger picture. When a cat is coughing, it is important to watch for other signs such as:

• Sneezing or nasal discharge
• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy or fatigue
• Labored or rapid breathing
• Vomiting (with or without a hairball)
• Blue-tinged gums or tongue (in severe cases)

The presence of these symptoms could help the vet determine the underlying issue more accurately.

When is a Cat Coughing an emergency?

While not all coughing is an emergency, some signs should never be ignored. Seek immediate veterinary attention if:

• The cat is struggling to breathe.
• Gums or tongue turn blue or gray.
• The cough is continuous and prevents the cat from resting.
• There are signs of choking.
• The cat has a known heart or lung condition, and symptoms worsen.

Diagnosis and Treatment Options

A veterinarian may perform a variety of tests to identify the cause of a cat’s cough:

• X-rays to check the lungs and heart
• Blood tests to detect infection or inflammation
• Fecal exams for lungworm or other parasites
• Bronchoscopy to visually inspect the airways

Treatment depends on the diagnosis:

• Antibiotics for bacterial infections
• Steroids or inhalers for asthma
• Deworming medication for lungworms
• Allergy management through environmental changes

How to Prevent Coughing in Cats

While not all causes can be avoided, cat owners can take steps to reduce the risk:

• Use unscented litter and avoid strong cleaning chemicals.
• Keep the home dust-free and well-ventilated
• Regularly deworm, especially for outdoor cats.
• Keep up with vaccinations and vet checkups.
• Avoid exposure to cigarette smoke or aerosols.

Final Thoughts

Coughing in cats should not be brushed off as a simple annoyance. While it may be something minor like a hairball, it could also be the first sign of a more serious condition. The key is to observe closely, act early, and trust a vet’s expertise when in doubt. With timely care and attention, most causes of feline coughing can be effectively managed, helping cats live happy, healthy lives.