Cat coughing when excited

cat coughing when excited

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 example that some cat owners notice is cat coughing when excited, which might seem unusual but could have various causes.

Breathing changes, such as coughing, wheezing, or rapid breathing, may indicate underlying issues that require attention. These symptoms might be temporary or could signal more serious conditions affecting the airways or lungs.

Why breathing changes matter

• They can affect your pet’s ability to get enough oxygen.
• They might cause discomfort or distress.
• They could be signs of infections, allergies, or other health problems.

It is important to remember that this information is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you notice your cat coughing when excited or any other unusual respiratory signs, you should contact a licensed veterinarian. They can provide a thorough examination and recommend appropriate care tailored to your pet’s needs.

Reviewed by the SASI Vet Respiratory Symptoms Editorial Board.

How this respiratory symptom typically appears

When a cat is coughing when excited, you might notice a variety of signs related to their breathing. Some cats may cough or sneeze occasionally, while others might have noisy or faster breathing during moments of excitement. These signs can vary widely from one cat to another.

Common signs you might observe

• Coughing that happens during or after play or excitement
• Sneezing or nasal discharge that may appear mild or occasional
• Noisy breathing, such as wheezing or raspy sounds
• Faster breathing or shortness of breath in some cases
• Open-mouth breathing, which can be a sign of increased effort
• Episodes of reverse sneezing, where the cat makes a snorting sound

Each cat’s experience can look a little different, and some signs might be subtle or come and go. If you notice your cat coughing when excited or showing any breathing difficulties, it’s important to consult a veterinarian. They can help determine the cause and recommend the best course of action for your pet’s health and comfort.

Common possible causes

If you notice your cat coughing when excited, it may be due to a variety of underlying causes. This symptom can arise from mild to more complex issues, so understanding some common categories can help you observe your pet more closely.

Mild infections and irritants

Respiratory infections, often caused by viruses or bacteria, might lead to coughing. Additionally, exposure to irritants like dust, smoke, or strong scents could trigger coughing episodes, especially when your cat is more active or excited.

Allergies and upper airway issues

Allergic reactions to environmental factors such as pollen or household chemicals may cause coughing. Upper airway problems, including inflammation or mild obstructions, could also contribute to coughing during moments of excitement or stress.

Stress and excitement

In some cases, coughing when excited may be linked to stress or heightened emotional states. The physical response to excitement might temporarily affect breathing or cause a reflex cough without an underlying illness.

Because the same respiratory symptom can have many different triggers, it is important to consult a veterinarian for a thorough evaluation. They can help determine the cause and recommend appropriate care tailored to your cat’s needs.

Less common but important causes

While many cases of a cat coughing when excited are mild, in some cases, coughing may be related to less common but more serious health issues. These conditions often require careful evaluation by a veterinarian to determine the underlying cause.

Possible serious conditions

Less commonly, coughing could be associated with pneumonia, which is an infection or inflammation of the lungs. Heart disease might also cause coughing due to fluid buildup or changes in blood flow affecting the lungs.

Other potential causes include airway collapse, where the windpipe partially closes, making breathing difficult, or fluid accumulation around the lungs, which can interfere with normal respiration. In rare cases, tumours in the respiratory tract or chest may contribute to coughing.

When to seek veterinary advice

If your cat’s coughing when excited is persistent, worsening, or accompanied by other signs such as difficulty breathing, lethargy, or loss of appetite, it is important to consult a veterinarian. They can perform a thorough examination and recommend appropriate diagnostic tests to identify any serious underlying conditions.

When it may be an emergency

Not all episodes of a cat coughing when excited are urgent, but certain signs may indicate a serious problem requiring immediate veterinary attention. It is important to recognize these red flags to ensure your cat’s safety.

Signs to watch for

If your cat shows any of the following symptoms, you should contact a veterinarian as soon as possible:

• Open-mouth breathing or difficulty breathing
• Blue or pale gums, which could suggest low oxygen levels
• Rapid or laboured breathing that does not improve quickly
• Collapse or extreme weakness
• Struggling to catch their breath or gasping

These signs may indicate a serious respiratory or cardiovascular issue that needs urgent evaluation. While a cat coughing when excited might sometimes be harmless, the presence of these symptoms could mean your pet is in distress.

If you notice any of these emergency signs, it is best to seek veterinary care promptly. Early assessment and intervention can be critical for your cat’s health and well-being.

How veterinarians evaluate respiratory symptoms

When a cat coughing when excited or showing other breathing difficulties is brought to a veterinarian, the evaluation begins with a thorough medical history. The vet may ask about the onset, frequency, and triggers of the coughing, as well as any other symptoms or changes in behaviour.

A physical examination is an important next step. The veterinarian will listen carefully to the heart and lungs using a stethoscope to detect any abnormal sounds that might indicate respiratory or cardiac issues.

Diagnostic tests

To better understand the cause of respiratory symptoms, several tests might be recommended. These could include:

• X-rays to view the lungs and chest structures
• Blood tests to check for infections or other underlying conditions
• Measurement of oxygen levels to assess breathing efficiency

In some cases, ultrasound or advanced imaging techniques may be used to get a clearer picture of the respiratory system and surrounding organs.

Each step helps the veterinarian gather information to guide further care. If your pet shows signs of breathing problems, it is important to consult a licensed veterinarian for a complete evaluation and tailored advice.

What pet owners can monitor at home

When your cat is coughing when excited, there are several details you can observe at home to help your veterinarian better understand your pet’s condition. Monitoring your cat’s breathing rate while at rest can provide useful information about their respiratory health. You might also notice if your cat is working harder to breathe, which could indicate increased breathing effort.

Signs to watch for

• Presence and frequency of coughing or sneezing episodes
• Any nasal discharge, including its color and consistency
• Changes in your cat’s activity level or willingness to play
• Variations in appetite or drinking habits

Possible triggers

It may be helpful to note if certain situations seem to trigger coughing, such as exercise, excitement, exposure to cold air, or dusty environments. Keeping a simple log of these observations can assist your veterinarian in identifying patterns or underlying causes.

Remember, while monitoring these signs is important, it does not replace professional veterinary evaluation. If you notice persistent or worsening symptoms, please contact your veterinarian for personalized advice and care.

General home care guidance

If you notice your cat coughing when excited, there are several steps you might take at home to help keep your pet comfortable. Creating a calm environment can reduce stress and excitement, which may help minimize coughing episodes.

It is important to avoid exposing your cat to smoke, strong fumes, or other airborne irritants, as these could worsen respiratory symptoms. Ensuring good ventilation in your home might also be beneficial.

Managing activity and environment

• Encourage gentle play and avoid over-exertion, as excessive activity might trigger coughing in some cats.
• Keep your cat’s living area clean and free from dust or strong scents.
• Maintain a consistent routine to help reduce excitement and anxiety.

Always follow any specific instructions provided by your veterinarian regarding your cat’s respiratory health. If coughing persists, worsens, or is accompanied by other signs such as difficulty breathing or lethargy, it is important to seek veterinary advice promptly. Your veterinarian can provide personalized recommendations based on your cat’s individual needs.

Supporting long-term respiratory health

Maintaining your cat’s respiratory health over time may help reduce episodes of coughing, including situations where a cat coughing when excited might occur. Regular veterinary checkups are important to monitor your pet’s overall health and catch any early signs of respiratory issues.

Healthy lifestyle habits

Keeping your cat at a healthy weight could ease breathing and reduce strain on the respiratory system. Avoiding exposure to smoke, strong aerosols, or other airborne irritants might also support clearer airways and better lung function.

Practical tips for daily care

• Using a harness instead of a tight collar may prevent unnecessary pressure on the neck and throat, which can be beneficial for respiratory comfort.
• Staying current on vaccinations recommended by your veterinarian might help protect against infections that affect the respiratory tract.

If you notice persistent coughing or other breathing difficulties, it is best to consult a licensed veterinarian. They can provide personalized advice tailored to your cat’s specific needs and help ensure the best possible respiratory health.

FAQs

Why is my cat coughing when excited?

Coughing when a cat is excited may be related to temporary irritation or mild respiratory sensitivity. In some cases, excitement can trigger a reflex cough due to rapid breathing or throat irritation. However, it’s important to monitor your cat and consult a veterinarian if coughing persists or worsens.

Could excitement-related coughing indicate a health problem?

While occasional coughing during excitement might be harmless, it could also signal underlying issues such as allergies, asthma, or respiratory infections. A thorough veterinary examination can help determine if there is a medical cause that needs attention.

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

If coughing occurs frequently, is accompanied by other symptoms like difficulty breathing, lethargy, or loss of appetite, or if your cat appears distressed, you should seek veterinary advice promptly. Early evaluation helps ensure your cat receives appropriate care.

Can environmental factors cause coughing in cats?

Yes, factors such as smoke, dust, strong scents, or allergens might irritate your cat’s airways and lead to coughing, especially during excitement when breathing changes. Reducing exposure to irritants may help, but a vet visit is recommended for persistent symptoms.

Is coughing during excitement common in cats?

It’s not very common, but some cats may cough when excited due to increased respiratory rate or mild airway sensitivity. Each cat is different, so if you notice this behavior, it’s best to have your cat evaluated by a veterinarian to rule out any health concerns.

Summary

Respiratory symptoms in pets, such as a cat coughing when excited, can be concerning for any pet owner. These signs may indicate a variety of underlying issues, ranging from mild irritation to more serious health conditions. Understanding that coughing can have multiple causes helps in recognizing when veterinary attention is needed.

Possible Causes

• Allergic reactions or irritants in the environment
• Respiratory infections or inflammation
• Heart or lung conditions that affect breathing
• Excitement or stress triggering temporary coughing episodes

Because the causes of respiratory symptoms vary widely, it is important to observe your pet closely and share detailed information with your veterinarian. They can perform appropriate examinations and tests to determine the cause and recommend the best course of action.

Remember, while a cat coughing when excited might be harmless in some cases, it could also signal an underlying health issue. Consulting a licensed veterinarian ensures your pet receives the care they need, helping to keep them comfortable and healthy.

• 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.