Summary

Cat coughing is the expulsion of air from the airways to clear irritants from the respiratory tract. The irritants can be anything from simple mucus to foreign material. Occasional coughing can happen, but when it becomes too frequent, it points to an underlying issue such as airway inflammation and irritation.

So, if you notice one or if a cough persists, it should be observed. Feline coughing is a symptom that should never be ignored.

Dry vs. Wet Cough

A dry cough usually sounds harsh, hacking, or wheezy. This type happens when the airways are irritated, inflamed, or narrowed. Some cats may stretch their neck forward or crouch low in response. This posture is similar to a cat gagging on a hairball.

A wet cough suggests that the lungs, throat, or lower airways are producing excess mucus or are affected by an ongoing respiratory infection or inflammation. It sounds moist and congested, often being "productive," meaning that the cat may swallow or expel phlegm after coughing.

Causes

One of the most common causes is feline asthma, which inflames and narrows the airways, leading to a hacking cough. A similar condition is bronchitis. Inhaled irritants and allergens such as dust, smoke, perfume, cleaning sprays, pollen, and strong scents are common triggers.

Bacterial or viral infections affecting the upper respiratory tract may make the airways hypersensitive, thereby easily triggering the reflex. They also cause excess mucus and phlegm. Diseases that can cause an upper respiratory infection include feline herpesvirus, feline calicivirus, and Bordetella.

Parasites such as lungworms and heartworms have differing mechanics. Lungworms cause direct physical irritation and an allergic response to the eggs and larvae. Meanwhile, heartworms trigger an intense immune response when the larvae migrate into the small blood vessels and airways of the lungs.

Other causes include acid reflux, foreign objects, and lung cancer.

When to be concerned

Seek veterinary care if severe symptoms are present. Look out for:

• Persistent coughing and wheezing

• Breathing difficulties, rapid breathing, or open-mouth breathing

• Coughing up blood or blue gums (a medical emergency)

• Nasal discharge, watery eyes, or a runny nose

• Fever, lethargy, reduced appetite, or weight loss

Our veterinarians recommend monitoring starting from the onset of mild symptoms. If possible, write down the signs you observe and take a video.