Can cats cough?
Yes, cats can cough. But it’s not as common in cats as it is in humans or even dogs. Because coughing is less common, it tends to stand out more when it happens. It also may look and sound a little different coming from a cat than what you’d expect.
Think of it as your cat’s way of sending a signal. They can’t tell you when something feels off, so their body shows you instead.
Signs of coughing in cats
Cats are good at hiding when they are sick, so signs of coughing aren't always obvious. Coughing is often mistaken for hairballs or gagging, so keeping an eye on your cat is important.
Coughing has both visual and sound clues. Learning to spot these can help you figure out what’s really going on.
What does a cat cough look like?
If you’ve ever seen your cat in a coughing episode, you may notice a very specific posture and movement. Most cats will:
- Crouch low to the ground
- Stretch their neck forward
- Keep their elbows slightly out
- Make repeated pushing motions with their chest
It can look like they’re trying to bring something up, but often nothing comes out.
These clues may help you describe what you’re seeing to your veterinarian and understand why a cough can be mistaken for other behaviors.
- Coughing versus hairballs: Hairballs usually end with your cat bringing up a clump of fur. A cough is often dry, with nothing produced.
- Coughing versus gagging or retching: Gagging involves the stomach and looks more forceful, with full-body heaving. Coughing comes from the chest.
- Coughing versus sneezing: Sneezing is quick and sharp, coming from the nose—not the lungs.
If your cat repeats this crouched, hacking motion without producing anything, it may be a cough.
What does a cat cough sound like?
Most cat coughs sound like:
- A hacking noise, often repeated a few times
- A raspy sound at times
Most coughing in cats is dry, meaning they don’t bring up any mucus or fluids. Some may sound “wet” or gurgled. The sound of the cough alone can’t tell you what may be causing it, which is why it’s important to have your vet take a look.
It’s also helpful to compare coughing with other sounds:
- Hairballs: Often louder
- Gagging: Deeper, more forceful
- Sneezing: Quick bursts, often in a series
- Wheezing: A high-pitched whistling sound when breathing (usually while breathing out), sometimes heard alongside coughing
If you hear repeated hacking or wheezing sounds, especially without a hairball, it’s worth paying attention.
Why do cats cough? Common causes
Once you suspect a cough, the next question is: Why is it happening? There are several possible causes. Some are mild, while others need medical care. It’s always best to talk to your vet when signs occur, but understanding the most common causes can help you know what to watch for.
Asthma or allergic airway disease
One of the most common causes is feline asthma. This happens when the airways become inflamed and narrow. You might notice:
- Frequent coughing
- Wheezing
- Breathing changes
Triggers can include dust, pollen, smoke, or even stress. Sometimes, no specific trigger is ever found.
Upper respiratory infections (“cat colds”)
Cats can get infections caused by viruses or bacteria. One common virus is feline herpesvirus, which can stay in the body and flare up later—even without new exposure to other cats. These infections can also spread between cats, especially in shelters or multi-cat homes. Signs may include:
- Sneezing
- Nasal congestion
- Watery eyes
- Sometimes coughing
Many cases are mild and improve with time, but it’s still important to monitor your cat and watch for worsening signs.
Parasites (such as lungworms)
Parasites are less common but concerning. Lungworms and other parasites can affect the lungs and cause a long-lasting cough. Cats may get these from hunting or being outdoors.
Heartworms
Heartworms are more common in dogs, but cats can get them too, if they get bitten by an infected mosquito. Even a small number of worms can cause coughing and breathing issues.
Environmental irritants
Sometimes, the cause is something in your home. Common irritants include:
- Smoke
- Dust
- Candles or strong scents
- Cleaning sprays
These can irritate your cat’s airways and trigger coughing.
When cat coughing or wheezing is serious
Because coughing in cats is uncommon, it’s normal to wonder which signs are more concerning. Coughing on its own may not be as severe as when it’s paired with other ailments. Watch for:
- Trouble breathing or fast breathing
- Breathing with the mouth open—this is a sign of distress
- Wheezing that doesn’t stop
- Blue or pale gums
- Feeling very tired or losing appetite
- Frequent or worsening coughing episodes
Breathing problems are always serious. If your cat seems to be struggling to breathe, don’t wait. Seek veterinary care right away.
What you can do at home (and what you shouldn’t)
Now that you know the serious signs that come with coughing, you and your vet can take the next steps. If your cat is coughing intermittently but otherwise seems okay, there are a few things you can do at home while you monitor the situation.
- Start by observing and tracking symptoms:
- How often does it happen?
- When does it happen?
- Are there triggers, like activity or dust?
- Next, you may want to reduce irritants:
- Avoid smoke and strong scents.
- Use gentle, unscented cleaners.
- Consider an air purifier.
- You can also switch to dust-free litter, which may help reduce airway irritation.
- Though hairballs are not true "coughs," regular grooming for your cat can help reduce buildup.
- Make sure your cat stays hydrated and comfortable, especially if they seem under the weather.
Just as important, know what not to do:
- Do not give human medications. Many human drugs are unsafe for cats and can make things worse.
- Do not ignore ongoing or worsening symptoms that last more than a few days. If you suspect anything abnormal, call your vet.
When to contact your vet for cat coughing
You’ve gone through the list of steps to minimize your cat’s coughing, but your pet might still be showing signs after a few days. If that’s the case, it’s time to contact your vet. Reach out if:
- The cough lasts more than a few days
- Episodes become more frequent or intense
- You notice any breathing changes, like wheezing, rapid breathing or other trouble breathing
- Your cat seems unwell overall
- Your cat is a kitten (1 year old and under) or senior (7 or more years old), or has other health issues
Your vet may recommend treatments based on the cause. These can include antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications like corticosteroids, or treatments for parasites. Only give medications exactly as prescribed by your veterinarian.
When in doubt, it’s always okay to call and ask. It’s better to check early than wait too long.
Final thoughts
Hearing your cat cough can be scary, but many causes are manageable once you understand what’s behind them.
The most important thing to remember is this: Coughing is a signal. It’s your cat’s way of telling you something isn’t quite right. By paying attention, tracking changes, and acting early, you can help keep your cat healthy and comfortable.
If your cat’s coughing is frequent, worsening, or concerning, schedule a veterinary visit to find the cause and get them back to feeling their best.
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions about this topic
Cats with hairballs are usually gagging or retching, not coughing. If your cat makes hacking sounds but nothing comes up, it may be a dry cough. This is often linked to airway issues like asthma or irritation. If it happens often, have your vet check it out.
This posture helps your cat push air out of their lungs more forcefully. It may look alarming, but it’s common during coughing. If it happens often without a hairball, it’s worth a vet visit.
Stress doesn’t usually cause coughing directly, but it can make existing problems worse. Conditions like asthma or viral infections may flare up during stressful times.
Ongoing coughing can be caused by asthma, infections, parasites, or irritants in the environment. If it keeps happening, becomes more frequent, or is paired with breathing changes, your vet can help find the cause and recommend treatment.
