Is Your Cat Coughing & Sneezing? Tips for Care and Relief
Is Your Cat Coughing & Sneezing? Tips for Care and Relief
As pet owners, we want nothing more than to keep our cats healthy and happy. Coughing and sneezing indicate common cat health issues ranging from mild to severe. If you're concerned about your cat's coughing or sneezing, this article is a helpful place to start.
We'll look at the causes of these symptoms, knowing when to seek veterinary care, home treatments for relief, and prevention tips. So, if you're worried about your beloved kitty's health, read on!
Is It Normal for Cats to Cough and Sneeze?
It is typical for cats to cough and sneeze from time to time, just like it is for humans. Coughing and sneezing can sometimes be signs of a minor upper respiratory infection, which most cats will recover from on their own.
However, if your kitty shows signs of repeated coughing or sniffling, it's time to take them to the vet for diagnosis and treatment. Continue reading to discover some additional causes, plus suggestions for relieving your cat's coughing and sneezing symptoms.
Common Causes of Coughing and Sneezing in Cats
Felines are creatures of habit, and their behavior is usually predictable. So, the onset of unusual symptoms can be concerning for their owners.
Common causes of coughing and sneezing in cats include:
- minor irritants
- allergies
- asthma
- heartworm
- upper respiratory infections
- feline infectious peritonitis
Allergies can cause stuffy noses from inhaled irritants like tobacco smoke or household cleaners, while asthma is similar to wheezing fits we might experience.
Heartworms are caused by parasites in the lungs. Upper respiratory infections are common in multi-cat households where cats can share viruses.
Feline infectious peritonitis is often fatal if left untreated, but thankfully, there is a vaccine available to protect against it.
How Can I Tell If My Cat's Cough Is Serious?
Although coughing is a common symptom of many upper respiratory infections in cats, it can become dangerous if left untreated. It may be more severe if the coughing is persistent and accompanied by labored breathing or other signs of illness.
If you notice any of these symptoms or your cat's cough worsens over time, please consult your veterinarian immediately. It's vital to get veterinary care as soon as possible to diagnose the cause and begin treatment at an early stage. Doing this will ensure that your pet can make a complete recovery.
Coughing in cats can be dangerous if left untreated
When Should I Take My Cat To The Vet?
If your cat experiences coughing or sneezing episodes for more than a couple of days, the most responsible approach is to have them examined by a vet.
Watch out for concerning symptoms like:
- Lethargy (extreme tiredness)
- Difficulty breathing (wheezing or gasping for air)
- Fever: Check your cat's temperature using a digital rectal thermometer or an in-ear thermometer; call the vet if it's over 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Little or no interest in food or water (look for signs of dehydration, like not urinating very often)
- Crusty discharge around the nose or eyes (especially if it smells bad or if there's pus or blood)
If you notice any of the above symptoms, please call your vet right away.
The Importance of Veterinary Care
When it comes to a cat coughing and sneezing, we must be proactive about getting them the necessary care. Veterinary medicine is vital for cats exhibiting signs of respiratory issues, as there could be underlying causes.
A vet can quickly address these issues by providing medications and treatments. They can help with allergies, infections, or even asthma—all of which may contribute to coughs and sneezes in cats. They may also recommend preventative steps you can take at home to reduce further incidences.
All in all, veterinary care is essential if your kitty suffers from persistent coughs and sneezes.
Comforting and Soothing Home Remedies
Together with veterinary guidance, here are some simple home remedies to help alleviate your cat's coughing and sneezing symptoms:
- Use a warm washcloth or a pet-friendly wipe to gently clean their weepy noses and eyes. I use John Paul Pet Ear & Eye Pet Wipes because they are soothing, healing, and safe.
- Wrap your cat in blankets for comfort and to maintain body temperature.
- Use a humidifier to put moisture into the air and loosen any congestion that may be present. Or, if your cat likes to follow you to the bathroom, allow them to stay awhile. The steam from your tub or shower may help clear their airways and make breathing easier.
- Warm their food a little, encouraging them to eat and providing necessary nutrients and energy.
- Ensure they drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration and flush out toxins or bacteria. Adding a little low-sodium chicken broth can help.
Tips to Prevent Cat Coughs and Sneezes
As with any health concern, it is always better to prevent the problem from happening in the first place. Here are some prevention tips for keeping your cat healthy and free from coughing or sneezing.
- Ensure your kitty lives in a clean environment with a regularly cleaned litter box.
- Properly wash all food and water bowls. Ideally, sanitize them daily in a dishwasher or with hot, soapy water.
- Keep your pet up-to-date on its vaccinations to stay safe from catching illnesses.
- If you notice an increase in respiratory symptoms or any changes in behavior, please don't hesitate to take them to a vet. Doing this will ensure quick and effective care.
Final Thoughts
These care tips can help relieve cat coughing and sneezing by soothing and alleviating discomfort. Please remember that home remedies are not a substitute for veterinary care, and you should call your vet if symptoms persist or worsen.
Being proactive is the key to keeping cats from getting sick, so you can help prevent future cat colds by keeping their environment clean and their vaccinations up to date.
Sources and Further Reading
- Coughing in Cats | VCA Animal Hospital
A cough is an expiratory effort producing a sudden, noisy expulsion of air from the lungs. In cats, coughing is most often a sign of an inflammatory problem, affecting the lower respiratory tract. - My Cat Is Coughing & Sneezing. What Could Be Wrong? | Old Farm Veterinary Hospital
Is your cat's coughing & sneezing nothing to worry about, or vet-worthy? Our Frederick, MD veterinarians give you some guidance.
This article is accurate and true to the best of the author’s knowledge. It is not meant to substitute for diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, prescription, or formal and individualized advice from a veterinary medical professional. Animals exhibiting signs and symptoms of distress should be seen by a veterinarian immediately.
© 2022 Louise Fiolek
