Laryngitis in cats

laryngitis in cats

Introduction

Changes in your pet’s breathing can be concerning and may indicate an underlying health issue. One respiratory symptom that can affect cats, and sometimes dogs, is laryngitis in cats. This condition involves inflammation of the larynx, which can lead to changes in voice, coughing, or difficulty breathing.

Breathing changes matter because they can affect your pet’s comfort and overall well-being. When a cat’s airway is irritated or swollen, it might struggle to get enough air, which could lead to distress or worsen other health problems.

It’s important to remember that this information is meant to help you understand possible signs and does not replace professional veterinary advice. If you notice any breathing changes or suspect laryngitis in your cat, you should contact a licensed veterinarian. They can provide a thorough examination and recommend appropriate care based on your pet’s specific needs.

Reviewed by the SASI Vet Respiratory Symptoms Editorial Board.

How this respiratory symptom typically appears

Laryngitis in cats may show up in several ways, and each cat might display different signs. Often, owners notice changes in their cat’s voice, such as hoarseness or a quieter meow. Some cats might cough or sneeze more than usual.

Common signs you might observe

• Noisy or raspy breathing
• Faster or more effortful breathing
• Open-mouth breathing in some cases
• Nasal discharge that could be clear or thick
• Episodes of reverse sneezing or gagging

It’s important to remember that not every cat will have all these signs, and symptoms can vary in severity. If you notice your cat having trouble breathing, persistent coughing, or any unusual respiratory noises, it’s a good idea to consult a veterinarian. They can help determine the cause and recommend the best care for your pet’s specific situation.

Common possible causes

Laryngitis in cats may result from a variety of underlying factors. Because the larynx is part of the upper respiratory tract, inflammation or irritation in this area can have multiple triggers that affect breathing and vocalization.

Mild infections

Viral or bacterial infections might cause inflammation of the larynx. These infections can be mild or more persistent, sometimes accompanied by other respiratory signs. In some cases, the infection may resolve on its own, but veterinary evaluation is important to rule out more serious issues.

Irritants and allergies

Exposure to smoke, dust, strong odors, or household chemicals could irritate a cat’s throat and larynx. Allergic reactions may also lead to inflammation and coughing. Identifying and minimizing exposure to potential irritants might help, but a veterinarian can provide guidance tailored to your cat’s situation.

Upper airway issues and stress

Structural problems or inflammation in the upper airway, such as swelling or foreign objects, might contribute to laryngitis symptoms. Additionally, stress or excessive vocalization could sometimes worsen throat irritation. Because many factors can overlap, a thorough veterinary assessment is recommended to determine the cause and appropriate care.

Less common but important causes

While laryngitis in cats is often linked to mild irritation or infection, in some cases, more serious conditions might be involved. These less common causes can affect your cat’s breathing and overall health, so it’s important to be aware of them.

Pneumonia and fluid around the lungs

Infections like pneumonia may cause coughing, difficulty breathing, or lethargy. Fluid accumulation around the lungs, known as pleural effusion, could also lead to respiratory distress. Both conditions require veterinary evaluation to determine the underlying cause and appropriate care.

Heart disease and airway collapse

Heart problems might sometimes contribute to respiratory symptoms, including coughing or laboured breathing. Additionally, airway collapse, although less common in cats than in dogs, could cause noisy or difficult breathing. These issues often need diagnostic tests to identify.

Rare causes

In rare cases, tumours or growths near the throat or lungs might cause symptoms similar to laryngitis in cats. These situations are uncommon but can be serious, so veterinary assessment is essential if symptoms persist or worsen.

If your cat shows ongoing or severe respiratory signs, it’s best to consult a veterinarian promptly. They can provide a thorough examination and recommend the most appropriate steps for your pet’s health and comfort.

When it may be an emergency

In some cases, laryngitis in cats might lead to serious breathing difficulties that require urgent veterinary attention. Recognizing the red flag signs can help you decide when to seek immediate care for your pet.

Signs to watch for

If your cat is showing any of the following symptoms, it could indicate a medical emergency:

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

These signs might indicate that your cat is having trouble getting enough oxygen, which can be life-threatening. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to contact a veterinarian immediately for advice tailored to your cat’s condition.

Remember, while laryngitis in cats often improves with time and care, severe respiratory distress should never be ignored. Prompt veterinary evaluation is the safest choice to ensure your pet’s well-being.

How veterinarians evaluate respiratory symptoms

When a cat shows signs of breathing difficulties, such as those related to laryngitis in cats, veterinarians begin by gathering a detailed medical history. This helps them understand the duration, severity, and any possible triggers for the respiratory symptoms.

Physical examination

A thorough physical exam is performed, including careful listening to the heart and lungs with a stethoscope. This can provide important clues about the presence of inflammation, fluid, or abnormal sounds that might indicate underlying issues.

Diagnostic tests

To further investigate, veterinarians may recommend diagnostic tests such as:

• X-rays to view the chest and airway structures
• Blood tests to check for infections or other systemic problems
• Measurement of oxygen levels to assess respiratory function

In some cases, ultrasound or advanced imaging techniques might be used to get a clearer picture of the respiratory tract and surrounding tissues.

Each step helps the veterinarian form a general understanding of the cat’s respiratory health. If your pet is experiencing breathing issues, it is important to consult a licensed veterinarian who can provide personalized advice and appropriate care.

What pet owners can monitor at home

When observing a cat with possible laryngitis in cats, there are several details owners can track to help provide useful information to their veterinarian. Monitoring your pet’s breathing rate at rest is important, as changes may indicate increased respiratory effort or discomfort.

Breathing and respiratory signs

Pay attention to how hard your cat is breathing. Notice if there is any wheezing, coughing, or sneezing. Nasal discharge, whether clear or colored, can also be a sign worth noting. These symptoms might fluctuate depending on environmental factors.

Activity and appetite

Changes in your cat’s activity level or appetite could suggest that the respiratory issue is affecting their overall well-being. Reduced playfulness or reluctance to eat might be subtle signs of discomfort or illness.

Possible triggers

Some cats may show worsening symptoms after exercise, excitement, exposure to cold air, or dusty environments. Keeping a simple log of when symptoms appear or worsen can help your veterinarian better understand your cat’s condition.

If you notice any concerning changes, it is always best to consult a licensed veterinarian for a thorough evaluation and personalized advice.

General home care guidance

If your cat is showing signs of laryngitis in cats, there are several steps you can take at home to help support their comfort. Keeping your pet calm and minimizing stress may reduce irritation to the throat and help them rest more easily.

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.

Activity and environment

Preventing over-exertion is important, as excessive activity could strain your cat’s breathing. Provide a quiet, comfortable space where your cat can relax without disturbance.

Following veterinary advice

Always follow the instructions provided by your veterinarian, as they will tailor recommendations based on your cat’s specific condition. If you notice any worsening symptoms or new concerns, contacting your veterinarian promptly is advised.

Remember, while these general care tips may help, they do not replace professional veterinary evaluation and treatment. Your veterinarian is the best source for guidance tailored to your cat’s health needs.

Supporting long-term respiratory health

Maintaining good respiratory health in pets, including those experiencing laryngitis in cats, may involve several general strategies. Regular veterinary checkups can help monitor your pet’s respiratory system and catch potential issues early.

Keeping your pet at a healthy weight might reduce strain on their respiratory system and improve overall well-being. Avoiding exposure to smoke, harsh aerosols, and other irritants could also help protect sensitive airways.

Practical tips for daily care

• Use harnesses instead of tight collars when appropriate, as this may reduce pressure on the throat and airway.
• Keep your pet’s environment clean and free from strong odors or chemicals that might trigger respiratory irritation.
• Stay current on vaccinations recommended by your veterinarian, which might help prevent infections that affect the respiratory tract.

If you notice any changes in your pet’s breathing or voice, it is important to consult a licensed veterinarian. They can provide personalized advice and guidance tailored to your pet’s specific needs.

FAQs

What is laryngitis in cats?

Laryngitis in cats refers to inflammation of the larynx, or voice box. This condition may cause changes in your cat’s voice, coughing, or difficulty breathing. It can result from infections, irritants, or other underlying health issues.

What signs should I watch for?

Common signs might include hoarseness, a harsh cough, gagging, or noisy breathing. In some cases, your cat may seem uncomfortable or have trouble swallowing. If you notice these symptoms, it’s important to monitor your pet closely.

What causes laryngitis in cats?

Possible causes include viral or bacterial infections, allergies, inhaling irritants, or trauma to the throat area. Sometimes, laryngitis may be linked to other respiratory conditions. A veterinarian can help determine the underlying cause.

When should I see a veterinarian?

If your cat shows persistent coughing, difficulty breathing, or changes in voice lasting more than a day or two, it’s best to seek veterinary advice. Early evaluation can help identify the cause and guide appropriate care.

Can laryngitis in cats be serious?

In some cases, laryngitis might lead to breathing difficulties or indicate a more serious illness. Prompt veterinary assessment is important to ensure your cat’s comfort and health.

Summary

Respiratory symptoms in pets, such as coughing, wheezing, or changes in voice, may indicate underlying health issues that deserve attention. Conditions like laryngitis in cats can cause discomfort and affect breathing, but these symptoms might also be signs of various other respiratory or systemic problems.

Possible causes of respiratory symptoms include infections, allergies, irritants, or inflammation. Because many conditions can present with similar signs, it is important to observe your pet carefully and note any changes in behaviour or breathing patterns.

Why Veterinary Care Is Important

• A veterinarian can perform a thorough examination to identify the cause of symptoms.
• Diagnostic tests may be needed to rule out serious conditions.
• Early evaluation helps ensure appropriate care and can improve outcomes.

If you notice your cat showing signs that might suggest laryngitis or other respiratory issues, contacting a licensed veterinarian is the safest step. They can provide personalized advice and guide you through the best options for your pet’s health. Remember, prompt attention can help keep your pet comfortable and breathing well.

• 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.