Cat coughing episodes

cat coughing episodes

Introduction

Changes in breathing can be concerning for any pet owner. Both dogs and cats may experience respiratory symptoms that affect their comfort and overall health. One such symptom that some cat owners notice is cat coughing episodes, which might indicate an underlying issue.

Respiratory symptoms can range from mild to more serious and may affect your pet’s ability to breathe normally. Because breathing is essential for delivering oxygen throughout the body, any changes could impact your pet’s wellbeing.

Why breathing changes matter

• They might signal infections or allergies.
• They could indicate irritation or inflammation in the airways.
• In some cases, they may be signs of more serious conditions affecting the lungs or heart.

If you notice your pet coughing, wheezing, or having difficulty breathing, it is important to observe them closely. While this information can help you understand possible causes, it does not replace professional veterinary advice. Always consult a licensed veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate care tailored to your pet’s needs.

Reviewed by the SASI Vet Respiratory Symptoms Editorial Board.

How this respiratory symptom typically appears

Cat coughing episodes may look different depending on the individual pet and the underlying cause. Owners often notice their cat coughing or hacking, which might be occasional or more frequent. Sometimes, coughing is accompanied by sneezing or noisy breathing sounds.

Common signs you might observe at home

• Coughing or hacking sounds that seem persistent or worsen over time
• Sneezing or nasal discharge that could be clear, cloudy, or colored
• Noisy breathing, such as wheezing or raspy sounds
• Faster or more effortful breathing, sometimes with open-mouth breathing
• Episodes of reverse sneezing, which may look like sudden, rapid inhalations

Each cat may show these signs differently, and some symptoms might be subtle at first. If you notice any changes in your cat’s breathing or coughing patterns, it’s important to consult a veterinarian. They can help determine the cause and recommend appropriate care tailored to your pet’s needs.

Common possible causes

Cat coughing episodes may arise from a variety of causes, ranging from mild to more complex issues. Understanding these potential triggers can help you recognize when veterinary advice is needed.

Mild infections and irritants

Respiratory infections caused by viruses or bacteria might lead to coughing. Additionally, exposure to irritants such as smoke, dust, or strong odors could cause temporary coughing or throat irritation in cats.

Allergies and environmental factors

Some cats may cough due to allergic reactions to pollen, mold, or household chemicals. These allergies can cause inflammation in the airways, leading to coughing episodes that come and go depending on exposure.

Upper airway issues and stress

Conditions affecting the upper airway, such as inflammation or mild obstructions, might trigger coughing. In some cases, stress or excitement can also cause a cat to cough or gag briefly.

Because the same respiratory symptom can have many different triggers, it is important to consult a veterinarian if your cat experiences coughing episodes. A professional evaluation can help determine the underlying cause and guide appropriate care.

Less common but important causes

While many episodes of cat coughing episodes are due to mild or common issues, in some cases, less frequent but more serious conditions might be involved. These causes often require careful evaluation by a veterinarian to determine the best approach.

Possible serious conditions

Less commonly, coughing in cats could be related to pneumonia, which is an infection or inflammation of the lungs. This condition may cause coughing along with other signs such as difficulty breathing or lethargy.

Heart disease is another potential cause that might lead to coughing episodes. When the heart is not functioning optimally, fluid can build up in or around the lungs, sometimes triggering coughing.

Other considerations

Airway collapse, although rare in cats, can cause intermittent coughing and breathing difficulties. Additionally, fluid accumulation around the lungs, known as pleural effusion, might cause coughing and respiratory discomfort.

In very rare cases, tumours affecting the respiratory system could be a factor. These situations usually involve additional symptoms and require thorough veterinary assessment.

If your cat is experiencing repeated or persistent coughing episodes, it is important to consult a licensed veterinarian. They can perform appropriate examinations and tests to identify any underlying causes and recommend suitable care.

When it may be an emergency

Cat coughing episodes can sometimes signal a serious health issue that requires urgent veterinary attention. While occasional coughing might not be alarming, certain signs alongside coughing could indicate an emergency.

Red flag signs to watch for

If your cat is showing any of the following symptoms, it might be important to seek veterinary care immediately:

• Open-mouth breathing or difficulty breathing
• Blue or pale gums, which may suggest low oxygen levels
• Rapid or laboured breathing that seems unusual for your cat
• Collapse or extreme weakness
• Struggling to catch their breath or gasping

These signs could indicate a serious respiratory or cardiovascular problem that needs prompt evaluation. It is always better to err on the side of caution and contact a veterinarian if you notice any of these symptoms in your cat.

Remember, while cat coughing episodes might sometimes be mild, the presence of these red flag signs could mean your pet needs urgent care. A licensed veterinarian can provide the best guidance tailored to your cat’s specific condition.

How veterinarians evaluate respiratory symptoms

When a cat experiences coughing episodes or other breathing difficulties, veterinarians begin by gathering a detailed medical history. This helps them understand the duration, frequency, and any possible triggers for the symptoms.

Physical examination

A thorough physical exam is performed, focusing on listening to the heart and lungs with a stethoscope. This allows the veterinarian to detect abnormal sounds that might indicate respiratory or cardiac issues.

Diagnostic tests

To gain more information, several diagnostic tests might be recommended, including:

• X-rays to visualize the lungs, airways, and chest structures
• Blood tests to check for infections, inflammation, or other underlying conditions
• Measurement of oxygen levels to assess how well the cat is breathing

In some cases, ultrasound or advanced imaging techniques could be used to further investigate the cause of respiratory symptoms.

Each step helps the veterinarian form a clearer picture of what might be causing the cat coughing episodes. If your pet shows any signs of breathing problems, it is important to consult a licensed veterinarian for a proper evaluation and guidance tailored to your cat’s needs.

What pet owners can monitor at home

When observing your cat, especially if you notice cat coughing episodes, there are several details you might track to help your veterinarian understand your pet’s condition better. Monitoring these signs at home can provide valuable information about your cat’s respiratory health.

Breathing rate and effort

Try to observe your cat’s breathing rate when they are resting and calm. An increased rate or noticeable effort, such as using abdominal muscles or open-mouth breathing, could indicate respiratory distress. Counting breaths per minute can be helpful if done gently and without causing stress.

Presence of cough, sneeze, or nasal discharge

Note how often your cat coughs or sneezes and whether there is any nasal discharge. The colour, consistency, and amount of discharge might change over time. These signs can sometimes be linked to irritants or infections but always require veterinary evaluation.

Changes in activity and appetite

Pay attention to any decrease in your cat’s usual activity level or appetite. These changes might suggest your cat is feeling unwell or experiencing discomfort related to breathing difficulties.

Known triggers

Some cats may cough or show respiratory symptoms in response to specific triggers such as exercise, excitement, cold air, or exposure to dust. Keeping a simple diary of when episodes occur and what might have triggered them can be useful information for your veterinarian.

If you notice any concerning signs or worsening symptoms, it is important to contact your veterinarian promptly for a thorough assessment and tailored advice.

General home care guidance

If your cat is experiencing coughing episodes, there are several steps you might take at home to help keep them comfortable. It is important to maintain a calm environment, as stress or excitement could potentially worsen coughing.

Avoid exposing your cat to smoke, strong fumes, or other airborne irritants that may trigger or increase coughing. This includes household cleaning products, perfumes, and cigarette smoke.

Preventing over-exertion

Limiting vigorous play or activity may help reduce coughing episodes in some cases. Encourage gentle play and provide a quiet resting area where your cat can relax without disturbance.

Following veterinary advice

Always follow the instructions provided by your veterinarian regarding care and monitoring. If coughing episodes persist, worsen, or are accompanied by other symptoms such as difficulty breathing or lethargy, contact your veterinarian promptly for further evaluation.

Supporting long-term respiratory health

Maintaining your cat’s respiratory health over time involves several general strategies that may help reduce the frequency or severity of cat coughing episodes. Regular veterinary checkups are important to monitor your pet’s overall health and catch any potential respiratory issues early.

Keeping your cat at a healthy weight might also support easier breathing and reduce strain on the respiratory system. Avoiding exposure to smoke, strong aerosols, and other airborne irritants could help minimize respiratory irritation in some cases.

Practical tips for daily care

• Use harnesses instead of tight collars when walking your cat, as collars might put pressure on the neck and airway.
• Stay current on vaccinations recommended by your veterinarian, which may help protect against infections that affect the respiratory tract.
• Provide a clean, dust-free environment to reduce potential triggers for coughing or breathing difficulties.

If you notice persistent or worsening coughing episodes, it is important to consult a licensed veterinarian. They can provide personalized advice and determine if further evaluation or treatment is needed to support your cat’s respiratory health.

FAQs

What might cause cat coughing episodes?

Cat coughing episodes could be caused by a variety of issues, including respiratory infections, allergies, asthma, or irritants like smoke or dust. In some cases, coughing may also be related to heart or lung conditions. A veterinarian can help determine the underlying cause through a thorough examination.

When should I be concerned about my cat’s coughing?

If your cat’s coughing is frequent, persistent, or accompanied by other signs such as difficulty breathing, lethargy, loss of appetite, or nasal discharge, it is important to seek veterinary advice promptly. These symptoms might indicate a more serious condition that requires professional evaluation.

Can cat coughing episodes be contagious?

Some causes of coughing, like certain respiratory infections, may be contagious to other cats. However, not all causes are infectious. It’s best to have your cat examined to understand the risk and appropriate precautions.

How can I help my cat before seeing the vet?

Keep your cat in a calm, smoke-free environment and avoid exposure to strong scents or irritants. Monitor their symptoms closely and note any changes. Avoid giving any medications without veterinary guidance, as this could complicate diagnosis and treatment.

Is coughing common in older cats?

Coughing can occur at any age but may be more concerning in older cats due to the higher likelihood of chronic conditions. Regular veterinary check-ups can help identify and manage age-related health issues early.

Summary

Respiratory symptoms in pets, such as cat coughing episodes, can be signs of various underlying health issues. These symptoms may range from mild irritations to more serious conditions affecting the airways or lungs. Understanding the potential causes helps pet owners recognize when veterinary attention is needed.

Possible causes of coughing episodes in cats might include:

• Allergies or irritants in the environment
• Infections such as viruses or bacteria
• Chronic conditions like asthma or bronchitis
• Foreign objects or obstructions in the airway

Because respiratory symptoms can have many different origins, it is important to work closely with a licensed veterinarian. They can perform appropriate examinations and tests to determine the cause and recommend the best course of action.

If you notice your cat coughing repeatedly or showing other signs of breathing difficulty, contacting your veterinarian promptly is the safest approach. Early evaluation and care may help manage symptoms effectively and support your pet’s overall health and comfort.

• Canadian Veterinary Medical Association
• American Veterinary Medical Association
• World Small Animal Veterinary Association
• Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph
• Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan

Disclaimer: This article provides general information about respiratory symptoms in pets and does not replace professional veterinary advice. Always consult a licensed veterinarian regarding your pet’s specific condition.