Cats Coughing After Drinking: Possible Causes & Solutio
Professional veterinarians have identified a common phenomenon among cats: they may cough after drinking water, which is known as "cat asthma." This condition can arise from several reasons:
Firstly, when cats drink water too quickly, it can inadvertently enter the trachea, prompting the cat to cough vigorously to expel the water from the airways, thereby preventing it from reaching the lungs and causing pneumonia or other respiratory diseases.
Secondly, cats tend to lap up water with their tongues, which can lead to water being inhaled into the nasal passages during the drinking process, causing them to cough. This is generally not a cause for concern, as the cat will usually recover within a few minutes. In such cases, pet owners can comfort their feline friends by gently holding them and stroking their backs.
Thirdly, cats with respiratory infections, such as feline rhinotracheitis, may also exhibit this coughing symptom. If a cat is frequently coughing, it's advisable for owners to take their pet to a veterinary clinic for a checkup and treatment.
"Cat asthma" is often observed when cats are anxious, eating, or drinking too rapidly. The episodes usually last for only a few seconds and can be alleviated by gently petting the cat's back.
The most common respiratory disease in cats is feline rhinotracheitis, which is more prevalent in stray cats and highly contagious. However, domestic cats that have been vaccinated are rarely affected. If a cat shows symptoms of this condition, administering a lysine supplement can be effective in treating feline rhinotracheitis.
When it comes to cat care, it's important to note that in the hot summer months, cats can dehydrate more quickly, leading to increased water consumption. If owners notice their cats are excessively thirsty and drinking water very frequently, they should take this as a sign of potential illness and seek veterinary advice.
In the summer, it's essential to provide cats with fresh, clean food and water. It's best to offer boiled and cooled water, and ensure that fresh water is changed regularly to prevent any water quality issues that could harm the cat's health. Additionally, the water bowls should be cleaned and disinfected promptly to maintain the cat's hydration and overall wellbeing.
Therefore, a cat's coughing after drinking water is not necessarily a sign of illness or any other problem; it's simply a habit of the cat.
For more information on cat coughing with vomiting, please click on Cat Cough with Vomiting to learn more about this issue.
