Why Is My Cat Coughing? A Vet-Approved Guide to Feline Respiratory Health

Let’s be honest—when your cat starts coughing, it’s hard not to panic. That hacking sound can make even seasoned pet owners scramble for answers. Is it hairballs? Allergies? Or something more serious? As someone who’s spent years studying feline health and working with veterinarians, I’ve seen firsthand how confusing this symptom can be. Let’s break it down without the jargon and give you actionable insights.

What’s Behind That Cough? Common Causes Explained

Cats don’t cough just to annoy you (though sometimes it feels that way). Here’s what might be going on:

1. Hairballs: The Usual Suspect
   You’ve probably heard that “hairballs cause coughing,” but here’s the twist: True hairball-related coughing is rarer than you think. Most hairballs are expelled through vomiting, not coughing. If your cat’s cough persists for days, it’s likely not just a hairball.
2. Upper Respiratory Infections (URIs)
   Think of URIs as the feline version of a cold. Symptoms include sneezing, runny eyes, and yes—coughing. Stress, multi-cat households, or exposure to sick cats can trigger these infections. One client’s cat developed a URI after boarding; a week of vet-prescribed care solved it.
3. Asthma: Yes, Cats Get It Too
   Feline asthma is shockingly common. Picture your cat crouching low with a strained cough—this “posture of distress” is a red flag. Dusty litter, pollen, or cigarette smoke often worsen symptoms. I’ve switched clients to dust-free litter, and the improvement was dramatic.
4. Heartworm Disease: A Silent Threat
   Wait, heartworm in cats? Absolutely. Unlike dogs, cats can’t be cured once infected. Coughing paired with lethargy or weight loss warrants immediate vet attention. Prevention is key—ask your vet about monthly preventatives.

“Is This an Emergency?” When to Call the Vet

Not every cough needs a midnight ER trip, but here’s what should send you running:

• Persistent coughing (longer than 24–48 hours)
• Blue-tinged gums or tongue (signaling oxygen deprivation)
• Loss of appetite or energy
  A client once ignored her cat’s “occasional cough” for weeks—turned out to be early-stage pneumonia. Early action saved her cat’s life.

Home Care Tips: What You Can Do Now

While vet visits are crucial, try these vet-approved strategies while waiting for your appointment:

• Humidify the air: A steamy bathroom session can loosen mucus.
• Reduce irritants: Ditch scented candles, switch to low-dust litter.
• Hydration station: Add water to wet food or offer broth (no onions!).

Prevention: Stop Coughs Before They Start

1. Routine Checkups: Annual exams catch issues early.
2. Clean Air Matters: Air purifiers reduce allergens.
3. Stress Reduction: Cats hate change—keep routines consistent.

The Bigger Picture: Why Your Cat’s Cough Matters

Coughing isn’t just a nuisance—it’s a language. Your cat’s body is signaling, “Hey, something’s wrong!” Ignoring it risks missing conditions like heart disease or lung tumors. I’ve seen cats bounce back from severe asthma with proper care, but timing is everything.

Final Thoughts
Next time your cat coughs, don’t just chalk it up to “hairball season.” Observe patterns, take notes, and trust your gut. And remember—when in doubt, call your vet. After all, wouldn’t you want someone to do the same for you?