La Cough in cats It is a natural and involuntary reflex by which your body tries to expel something that causes irritation in your respiratory tract. It can be due to multiple causes, such as: strange objects, virus, bacteria, parasites or even environmental factors, such as smoke or wearing collars that are too tight. Although sometimes it can be a passing reflex, on other occasions, coughing in cats can be indicative of serious health problems that require immediate veterinary attention.
What is cough in cats?
Coughing in cats is a defense mechanism of the respiratory system. This reflex serves to clear the upper and lower airways of irritant agents or accumulations of mucus. Although unlike humans or dogs it is not common in felines, when a cat coughs, it can be a sign of an underlying problem that varies from mild to potentially serious. Among the most frequent stimuli that trigger coughing are: infections, allergies, strange bodies y chronic diseases such as feline asthma or heart problems.
Main causes of coughing in cats
The causes of coughing in cats are diverse and it is essential to identify them in order to provide the correct treatment. Here are some of the most common reasons:
- Respiratory infections: Viral, bacterial, or even fungal infections are common in cats and can cause coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, and conjunctivitis. Some of the common agents are feline herpesvirus, calicivirus, and Chlamydophila cat.
- Feline asthma: A chronic inflammatory disease affecting the lower respiratory tract. Cats with this condition may experience wheezing, difficulty breathing, and episodes of coughing and gagging.
- Lung parasites: Among the most common lungworms in cats are Aelurostrongylus abstrusus y Capillaria aerophilaThese cause inflammation and damage to lung tissue.
- Strange bodies: Blades of grass or other materials can become lodged in the throat or nasal passage, causing a sharp cough.
- Environmental factors and irritants: Inhalation of cigarette smoke, dust, chemicals or aerosols is also a common cause of coughing in cats.
- Heart diseases: Although less common in cats, cardiac disorders can cause fluid buildup in the lungs, leading to coughing.
- Tumors: Although rare, neoplasms in the lung or other areas of the respiratory system can cause persistent cough.
Symptoms accompanying cough
In addition to coughing, it is important to observe other symptoms that may be related, as they provide key clues to determine its origin. Some of the symptoms that usually accompany coughing in cats are:
- Frequent sneezing: They indicate irritation or infections in the upper respiratory tract.
- Nasal or ocular discharge: It can be clear, yellowish or greenish and is associated with infections.
- Difficulty breathing or noisy breathing: Some cats have labored breathing or make noises when inhaling.
- Progressive loss of appetite or weight: Chronic respiratory problems can cause malnutrition.
- Signs of fatigue or lethargy: Lack of oxygen can cause fatigue.
- Fever or increased body temperature: Characteristic sign of viral or bacterial infections.
Diagnosing Cough in Cats
Determining the exact cause of a cat's cough may require a comprehensive diagnostic approachThe veterinarian may perform a series of tests depending on the symptoms observed and the animal's medical history:
- Complete physical exam: It includes evaluation of the airways, pulmonary auscultation and palpation in search of possible irregularities.
- Chest X-rays: To identify lung problems such as tumors, fluid buildup, or foreign bodies.
- Blood test: It can detect infections, inflammations and elevated levels of eosinophils, useful for identifying allergies or parasites.
- Stool tests: To diagnose lungworm infections.
- Bronchoscopy: It allows the respiratory tract to be visualized and foreign bodies, tumors or inflammations to be identified.
Thanks to these diagnostic tools, the veterinarian will be able to accurately identify the cause of the cough and propose the most appropriate treatment.
Recommended treatments
Depending on the specific cause of your cough, treatment can vary significantly. Here are some of the most common treatments:
- Infections: They are treated with antibiotics in the case of bacterial infections or with antivirals if the cause is viral. Feline flu, for example, may require intensive care in severe cases.
- Feline asthma: Treatment usually includes corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and bronchodilators to improve breathing.
- Parasites: Specific antiparasitics are administered to eliminate the lungworm infestation.
- Tumors: In cases of neoplasia, surgery, chemotherapy or radiotherapy may be necessary.
- Exposure to irritants: It is essential to remove the triggering agent from the cat's environment.
It is important to remember that A cat should never be medicated without the supervision of a veterinarian.Some human medications, such as aspirin, are toxic to felines.
Home care
While the cat is recovering or if the cough is mild and transient, there are measures that owners can take at home to relieve the animal:
- Keep the environment clean and free of dust.
- Avoid using strong chemicals.
- Make sure your cat has constant access to fresh water.
- Clean your nose and eyes with a moistened gauze if there is discharge.
- Provide a quiet and comfortable place to rest.
Finally, remember that if you have the slightest doubt, it is best to go to the vet. Identifying a problem in time can make a difference in the health and well-being of your cat.