Causes of Coughing in Cats and When to Call the Vet

If your cat starts coughing, it could be a sign that something isn’t right, so you may want to look into what’s going on. This blog will discuss various reasons why cats cough and provide guidance on when it’s necessary to seek help from your veterinarian. If you’re ever in doubt about your cat’s health, please call Animal Emergency Center of Tulsa at 918-665-0508.

What Causes Coughing in Cats?

Coughing in cats can have many underlying factors, ranging from minor irritations to more serious health concerns. Understanding these causes can help you better care for your feline friend.

Common Infections

Respiratory infections, like feline herpesvirus and calicivirus, are frequent culprits. These viruses can cause inflammation in your cat’s airways, leading to coughing.

Allergies

Cats, just like people, can have allergies. Allergens like pollen, mold, and even household dust can trigger coughing.

Asthma

Feline asthma is another common issue and is somewhat similar to human asthma. It’s often triggered by environmental irritants, and you might notice your cat wheezing along with coughing.

Foreign Objects

Sometimes, cats inhale things they shouldn’t, like small toy parts or thread. These can get stuck in their throat or airways, causing irritation and coughing.

Heart Disease

Less commonly, coughing can be a symptom of heart disease in cats. If their heart isn’t functioning properly, fluid can build up in the lungs and cause coughing.

When to Call the Vet

Knowing when to seek veterinary help is crucial to ensuring your cat’s health and comfort.

Persistent Cough

If your cat’s coughing lasts more than a day, it’s time to call the vet. Ongoing coughing can indicate a more serious condition that needs treatment.

Coughing with Other Symptoms

Be alert for signs like lethargy, reduced appetite, or difficulty breathing. These, combined with coughing, could indicate a severe health issue.

Changes in Behavior

If your cat seems less active, hides more than usual, or shows changes in their normal behavior, it’s a good idea to consult with a vet.

Distress

If your cat’s coughing seems to cause distress or is accompanied by a lot of noise, like wheezing or loud breathing, they need to be seen by a vet immediately.

Managing Your Cat’s Coughing

While it’s essential to identify the cause of your cat’s cough, there are ways to manage their symptoms at home while you await your vet appointment.

• Make sure your cat has a quiet, comfortable place to rest. Stress can exacerbate coughing, so keeping your cat calm is important.
• Improve the air quality in your home. Use air purifiers to reduce airborne irritants that might be causing your cat to cough.
• Sometimes, dry air can irritate your cat’s airways. Using a humidifier can help keep their throat and airways moist, reducing coughing.

Prevention Tips

While not all causes of coughing in cats can be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk.

• Ensure your cat has regular check-ups. This helps catch any potential health issues early before they become serious.
• Keep up with your cat’s vaccinations. This is vital for preventing respiratory infections that can cause coughing.
• Keep your home clean and free of dust and other irritants that could affect your cat’s respiratory health.

Call Us If Your Cat is Coughing

Coughing in cats can be worrying, but understanding the causes and knowing when to seek help can shed light on the issue and put your mind at ease about your cat’s condition. Remember, if your cat is coughing and you’re concerned about their health, please call the Animal Emergency Center of Tulsa at 918-665-0508.