If your cat has been coughing for no apparent reason, you're probably wondering why or what to do about it. While seeing your cat cough and wheeze might be unsettling for owners, it's a typical occurrence in the feline world and frequently indicates that the feline is trying to get rid of an infrequent hairball. But when we examine all the potential problems with their nose, throat, and lungs that could result in this symptom, a simple cough can rapidly become a little more problematic. It could possibly have anything to do with your cat's heart.
This implies that it's best to let the veterinarian handle the mystery of your cat's cough. Here are a few potential causes of your cat's coughing while they wait for the appointment.
Why is your cat coughing, you wonder? The leading six possible causes
This implies that it's best to let the veterinarian handle the mystery of your cat's cough. Here are a few potential causes of your cat's coughing while they wait for the appointment.
Why is your cat coughing, you wonder? The leading six possible causes
Is it a lung infection, an asthma episode, or an allergy? There are numerous reasons why a cat might cough suddenly. Something as small as dust has the ability to cause all of that coughing and wheezing in cats. Although the list is lengthy, we've broken it down for you. These are a few possible causes for your cat's increased coughing.
1 - Asthma
1 - Asthma
Pollen, mold, mites, mold, smoke, and other allergens that may inflame the airways if inhaled can all induce feline asthma. Although it's not often the only symptom to watch out for, cat cough can be one of the most common ones.
Lethargy, vomiting, wheezing, and fast breathing are additional indicators that your cat may have asthma.
While there is no known cure for feline asthma, there are numerous therapies that can be used, such as inhalers, injections, and medications. These may help a struggling feline breathe normally again, but they won't cure the underlying issue.
Lethargy, vomiting, wheezing, and fast breathing are additional indicators that your cat may have asthma.
While there is no known cure for feline asthma, there are numerous therapies that can be used, such as inhalers, injections, and medications. These may help a struggling feline breathe normally again, but they won't cure the underlying issue.
Testing for allergens is also frequently advised. This can help you pare down the list of potential allergy triggers, and you can start reducing your pet's contact with them once you determine exactly what in the cat's surroundings is triggering the asthma attacks.
2 - Hair globules
Cat hairballs are an inevitable result of your pet's tendency to clean themselves. Cats ingest hair during grooming, and occasionally this hair builds up in their stomachs and produces hairballs. Typically, cats will try to get rid of the hairball by gagging, retching, and coughing. All of this work is intended to prevent the hairball from becoming lodged in their intestines and producing an obstruction. However, seeing their cat struggle through the process can be unsettling for owners.
Therefore, your cat may be coughing to get rid of that hairball, if you're wondering why they're doing so. This shouldn't occur more frequently than once a month, though. See a veterinarian to rule out other problems if your cat has started coughing, retching, and gagging more frequently.
3 - A case of pneumonia
4 - Infections of the respiratory system
Your cat's coughing and wheezing may also be caused by a respiratory ailment. Cats who have bacterial, fungal, or viral illnesses may exhibit coughing, sneezing, sniffling, and lethargy. Feline flu is equally contagious in cats, so if your cat also has a runny nose or changes in appetite, this could be the cause of all those unexpected coughing fits. Thankfully, a kitten or cat who has had all of their recommended vaccines is less likely to contract the flu.
It's always advisable to consult your veterinarian or rule out any respiratory illnesses if you observe an unusual or persistent cough in your pet.
5 - Cancer
Cat cancer can also impact the respiratory system. Tumors that grow in the mouth, throat, or lungs can occasionally cause a cat cough that won't go away. Coughing up blood, tiredness, and rapid breathing are some of the most typical symptoms of lung cancer. As with many cancers, the likelihood of a favorable outcome might be enhanced by early detection. Therefore, be aware of any strange changes in your cat's attitude and symptoms, and don't be afraid to call the veterinarian.
6 - Unnatural objects
Occasionally, it could be the case that your cat has been coughing up a storm in order to get rid of something little that they inhaled on one of their daily wandering excursions. Food can get lost or spilled, and in these circumstances, coughing is a normal reaction.
While cats often try their best to clear their airways of food particles or foreign objects through coughing and sneezing, these obstructions can occasionally become trapped, so it's crucial to contact your veterinarian if your cat's coughing doesn't go away.
When is your cat's cough cause for concern?
In cats, coughing can be harmless. Like people, our feline friends also cough from time to time without needing medical attention. However, it's crucial to note if the cough lasts for several days or if it's quite bad, and get in touch with your veterinarian right away.
Thankfully, a lot of the ailments we mentioned above, including respiratory infections or asthma, are frequently curable or manageable. If you are concerned that your cat may be afflicted with a more serious disease, like cancer, contact your vet.
Thankfully, a lot of the ailments we mentioned above, including respiratory infections or asthma, are frequently curable or manageable. If you are concerned that your cat may be afflicted with a more serious disease, like cancer, contact your vet.
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