Is Your Cat Coughing? Here’s What You Need to Know

Cats are curious and resilient, but when you notice your feline friend coughing, it can stir up real concern. A single cough may not mean much—just like in humans—but if the coughing becomes frequent or your cat seems to struggle while breathing, it’s time to dig deeper.

While many causes of cat coughing are manageable, some can be serious—even life-threatening. Knowing the warning signs and when to seek help could make all the difference.

Let’s explore why your cat might be coughing, what other symptoms to watch for, and what steps you can take to keep your fur baby safe and sound.

Common Reasons Why Cats Cough

Coughing in cats usually means something is irritating their airways—like the throat, windpipe, or lungs. It may sound dry or wet, and sometimes you might even see your cat gag or try to bring something up.

Here are some of the most common causes:

1. Hairballs

Although not technically a cough, hairball episodes are often mistaken for one. That hacking sound? It’s actually closer to vomiting. Long-haired cats or frequent groomers are especially prone to this.

2. Respiratory Infections

Bacterial, viral, fungal, or even parasitic infections can inflame your cat’s airways. These infections may cause coughing, wheezing, or mucus buildup. If it spreads to the lungs, it may develop into pneumonia.

3. Feline Asthma

Asthma in cats is a chronic condition where the airways become inflamed, narrow, and filled with mucus. Triggered by allergens like dust or smoke, asthma can cause persistent coughing and wheezing.

4. Heartworms

Though rare, heartworms can lead to serious respiratory issues in cats. Known as Heartworm-Associated Respiratory Disease (HARD), it can mimic asthma and may even cause sudden collapse or death in some cases.

5. Lung or Chest Tumors

Tumors inside the lungs or around the chest can press on the airways, making it hard to breathe. These are more common in cats with weakened immune systems, such as those with FIV or FeLV.

Additional Symptoms to Watch For

A coughing cat may show other subtle or serious signs that something’s wrong. Don’t ignore these:

• Watery or gooey discharge from the nose or eyes
• Labored or fast breathing
• Blue-tinged gums or tongue (a sign of oxygen trouble)
• Hunched posture when breathing
• Noisy breathing (wheezing or grunting)
• Coughing up blood
• Sudden collapse
• Weight loss or poor appetite

If you spot one or more of these along with the cough, act quickly.

When to Call the Vet

You know your cat best, and if something feels off, trust your instincts. Reach out to your vet if:

• Your cat coughs often or struggles to breathe
• You notice any signs of respiratory infection
• There’s discharge from the nose or eyes
• The cough sounds wet, persistent, or is paired with lethargy

⚠️ Seek emergency care immediately if your cat is:

• Gasping with open-mouth breathing
• Turning blue in the gums or tongue
• Coughing up blood
• Collapsing or in obvious pain

Some conditions like heartworm disease can easily be mistaken for feline asthma—getting an accurate diagnosis is key to proper treatment.

Home Remedies and At-Home Care

Never rely solely on home treatments without knowing the exact cause. A trip to the vet should always come first. But once your vet has diagnosed the issue, these supportive strategies may help ease your cat’s symptoms:

1. Steam Therapy

Moist air can soothe irritated airways. Let your cat sit in a steamy bathroom while you shower or use a humidifier nearby to loosen mucus and help them breathe more easily.

2. Safe Use of Antihistamines

In mild allergic reactions or asthma, your vet may recommend a safe antihistamine like chlorpheniramine. Never give human meds to pets without vet guidance.

3. Hairball Lubricants

If hairballs are the culprit, over-the-counter gels can help move fur through the digestive tract. Brushing your cat regularly also minimizes hair ingestion.

Tips to Prevent Cat Coughing

Some causes of coughing can’t be prevented, but many can. Follow these steps to reduce your cat’s risk:

• Keep your cat on year-round parasite prevention, including for heartworms
• Stay up to date with vaccinations
• Schedule regular vet visits for checkups
• Don’t smoke indoors—secondhand smoke harms pets
• Avoid using essential oils and aerosol sprays around cats
• Regularly groom your cat to prevent hairballs
• Identify and eliminate allergens in your home
• Keep your cat indoors for better air quality and safety

Final Thoughts: Don’t Ignore a Cough

Your cat’s cough may seem minor, but it can be a sign of something serious. Whether it’s asthma, an infection, or a rare condition like heartworms, getting your cat the right care at the right time can make all the difference.

If your cat’s cough lingers or worsens, don’t wait. Speak with your veterinarian to get a clear diagnosis and start a treatment plan that brings comfort back to your pet’s life.

Because when it comes to our beloved fur babies, every breath matters. 💙