Why is my cat coughing? Watching a cat cough, regardless of the cause, can be disturbing. The cat can become agitated and apprehensive, and each cough looks like it will be the last.
If your cat has a severe or long-lasting cough, you should take them to the vet right away so they can figure out what’s wrong. Your vet may be able to figure out the cause of the cough based on how it sounds and what else they see.
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Common Causes of Cat Coughing
Asthma
Asthma is the most common feline respiratory disorder, and cats who spend at least part of their time outdoors are most likely to get it and may experience a cough.
Allergies
Allergies may also be the cause of your cat’s cough.
Fungal Lung Infection
Your outdoor cat could pick up a fungus from the soil, and coughing is a common symptom.
Heartworms
Mosquitoes spread heartworm disease. If you live in an area with these bugs, your cat is more at risk. You can get preventative medicine from your vet.
Lung Cancer
Lung cancer could also be the cause of a cat cough. Some tumors can be controlled with medication. If not, surgery may be an option.
Pneumonia
Coughing can be a sign of pneumonia, which can be diagnosed with x-rays and may respond to antibiotics and other treatments.
Congestive Heart Failure
Coughing may also be a sign of congestive heart failure, which can be diagnosed by your vet with an ultrasound or electrocardiogram.
Tight collars
Pressure on your cat’s windpipe can cause damage and lead to a cough.
Worms
Worms are common in felines. It’s one reason your pet gets regular blood and fecal tests at the vet.
Treatment
Treatment for your cat’s cough will depend on what’s causing it. Don’t treat your pet without talking to a vet. Options for treatment may include cough suppressants, antibiotics, steroids, other drugs, and even surgery, but you should work with your vet to find the best option.
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