Coughing in cats can be alarming for cat owners, especially when it persists or is accompanied by other symptoms like itching and scratching. While a cat's cough might be a simple reaction to a minor irritant, it can also be indicative of more serious underlying conditions.
This guide will explore the various causes, symptoms, and treatments related to coughing in cats, providing valuable insights for maintaining your feline friend's good health.
Reasons Your Cat May be Coughing
Here are some of the most common causes of coughing in cats:
1. Respiratory Infections
These are a primary cause of coughing in cats. These infections may be bacterial, viral, or fungal and affect the respiratory tract. Common respiratory infections include feline calicivirus and feline herpesvirus. Symptoms often accompanying the cough include a runny nose, sneezing, and fever.
2. Feline Asthma Attacks
Also referred to as feline allergic bronchitis, this is a condition where the feline's airways become inflamed and constricted due to an allergic reaction. Triggers include dust, pollen, cigarette smoke, and certain chemicals. Cats with asthma may exhibit symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and labored breathing, especially during an asthma attack.
3. Parasitic Infections
These infections can cause coughing in cats, primarily through lung parasites or heartworm disease. These parasites invade the cat's lungs or heart, leading to persistent coughing and other severe symptoms. The lungworm and heartworm are the most common parasitic worms.
4. Heart Disease
Certain types of cardiac disease can lead to fluid accumulation in the lungs, causing a chronic cough. Congestive heart failure is a notable condition where the heart cannot pump efficiently, resulting in fluid buildup in the lungs (pulmonary edema) and subsequent coughing.
5. Lung Cancer
Although less common, this is a serious condition that may cause a persistent cough in cats. It is often accompanied by other symptoms such as loss of weight, lethargy, and decreased appetite. Early detection is crucial for managing the cancer.
6. Irritants
Irritants like dust, smoke, or chemicals can cause a cat to cough as the body attempts to expel the irritant from the respiratory tract. Inhaled objects such as grass blades or small particles may also trigger coughing.
7. Allergies
Allergic reactions to environmental factors such as pollen, mold, or certain foods can cause inflammation in the feline's airways, leading to coughing. Identifying and eliminating the allergen from the cat's environment is key to managing allergic reactions.
8. Nasopharyngeal Polyps
These are benign growths in the nasopharynx area that can obstruct airflow and cause a cat to cough. These polyps can also cause difficulty breathing, runny nose, and sneezing.
9. Inhaled Liquids
Cats can accidentally inhale liquids, which can irritate the respiratory tract and cause coughing. This could happen if a cat drinks too quickly or regurgitates food and inhales some of the liquid content.
10. Fungal Infections
Infections such as cryptococcosis can affect a cat's respiratory system, leading to coughing. These infections are usually more common in certain geographic areas and can be serious if not treated promptly.
Symptoms to Watch For in Cats that are Coughing
When your cat starts coughing, it’s important to observe them. Some common signs that indicate a need for veterinary attention include:
Chronic Cough: If a cat's cough persists for more than a few days or becomes more frequent, it warrants a vet visit.
Wet or Dry Cough: The nature of the cough can indicate different issues. A wet cough may suggest fluid in the lungs, while a dry cough might point to asthma or an infection.
Nasal Discharge: Accompanied by coughing, nasal discharge can indicate a respiratory infection.
Open-Mouth Breathing: Difficulty in breathing or open-mouth breathing is a serious sign that the cat is not getting enough oxygen.
Weight Loss: If you notice your cat coughing and suddenly losing weight, it may be indicative of a severe underlying condition such as lung cancer or heart disease.
Other Signs: Look for signs such as lethargy, loss of appetite, and wheezing, which may help in diagnosing the issue.
Treatment Options for a Cat Cough
Below are some common treatment options:
Antibiotics are used to treat secondary infections. If the cough is caused by bacterial infections such as pneumonia or bronchitis, antibiotics can help eliminate the infection.
Antiviral Medications combat viral infections. In cases where viral infections like feline herpesvirus or calicivirus are diagnosed, antiviral medications may be prescribed to reduce the severity and duration of symptoms.
Antifungal Medications treat fungal infections. Infections such as aspergillosis or cryptococcosis require specific antifungal drugs to clear the infection from the respiratory system.
Anti-parasitic medications eliminate parasitic infections. Medications like milbemycin or ivermectin can treat lungworms, heartworms, and other infections affecting the lower respiratory tract.
Corticosteroids reduce inflammation. Corticosteroids are commonly used to manage inflammation in cases of feline asthma or severe allergic reactions, helping to open the airways and ease breathing.
Bronchodilators relax and open the airways. These medications are used to treat asthma and other conditions that cause the airways to constrict, making it easier for the cat to breathe.
Cough Suppressants reduce coughing. In some cases, particularly if the cough is non-productive and persistent, cough suppressants can provide relief by reducing the frequency and severity of coughing.
Oxygen Therapy ensures the cat receives enough oxygen. For cats experiencing severe respiratory distress, supplemental oxygen can help stabilize them and provide immediate relief while other treatments take effect.
Fluid Therapy maintains hydration and supports recovery. Intravenous or subcutaneous fluids can help keep a cat hydrated, especially if they are not eating or drinking adequately due to illness.
Surgery removes obstructions or tumors. In cases where coughing is caused by tumors, foreign bodies, or benign growths, surgical intervention may be necessary to remove the obstruction and alleviate the effects.
Conclusion
The treatment of a coughing cat depends largely on the underlying cause. For mild cases, supportive care and minor medical interventions may suffice. However, more severe conditions require prompt medical attention and a comprehensive treatment plan. If the issue is caught early, most cats can recover fully with appropriate care. Monitoring your cat's symptoms and seeking veterinary advice if coughing persists is crucial.
In life-threatening situations, such as severe respiratory distress or underlying cardiac disease, contact your vet immediately to ensure your feline receives the necessary care. Regular check-ups and maintaining a healthy environment can prevent many causes of coughing, ensuring your cat's well-being and quality of life.
