What it is
In a cat with asthma, the airways react too strongly to things in the air, such as dust, smoke, pollen or strong scents. The lining swells, the small muscles around the airways clench and sticky mucus narrows the passage further, so each breath takes more effort.
Between flare-ups a cat can seem perfectly well, which makes it easy to mistake an occasional cough for a hairball. Unlike with a hairball, though, nothing comes up.
At home, it is worth noticing what was happening before a coughing spell: fresh litter being poured, a candle burning, cleaning sprays in the air. A short video of an episode on your phone can show a vet more than any description.
Signs you may notice
- Coughs with neck stretched out
- Wheezes when breathing
- Breathes fast or with effort
- Breathes with an open mouth
- Tires quickly during play
A cat coughs or wheezes, sometimes crouched low with its neck stretched out, as if trying to bring up a hairball. During an attack it may breathe fast or with an open mouth.
When to see a vet
If your cat breathes with an open mouth, struggles for air or its gums look bluish, a vet is needed immediately. For an occasional cough or wheeze, book a check-up.
This is general information, not veterinary advice. For your own cat's health, tests and treatment, see a vet.