Cats Cough Upon Waking: Possible Causes Explained

Part 1: Causes of Cats Coughing

1. The change in temperature can trigger shedding in cats, and if the shedding is excessive, the cats may start grooming themselves excessively, leading to a significant amount of fur entering their digestive system and causing coughing. Therefore, it's crucial for owners to regularly groom their cats to prevent this issue.

2. If your cat coughs immediately upon waking up, it might be due to dry throat or food remnants stuck in the throat from the night before. To avoid this, it's best not to feed your cat indigestible foods and ensure they have access to water after waking up.

3. Cats can also cough due to catching a cold, especially when the morning temperatures are low. It's important to keep your cat warm, particularly in their sleeping area, which should be comfortable and cozy. If you notice your cat has a cold with symptoms like coughing and runny nose, it's essential to administer medication promptly or take them to the vet for treatment.

4. Environmental factors can also lead to coughing in cats. If the air is not circulating well in the environment where your cat wakes up, it can irritate their respiratory system. Therefore, while maintaining a comfortable room temperature, ensure proper ventilation.

5. Respiratory and lung infections are serious conditions that can directly cause coughing in cats. If these symptoms arise, it's vital to seek veterinary care immediately.

Part 2: What to Watch Out For When Your Cat Coughs Upon Waking

1. Keep an eye out for hairballs in your cat, especially during shedding seasons. Regularly clean your cat's fur, and consider feeding them a hairball remedy or cat grass to help manage hairballs.

2. Ensure your cat stays hydrated by providing plenty of water, as dry kibble can easily cause food particles to get stuck in the throat or esophagus. Adequate water intake aids in digestion.

3. Cats are particularly sensitive to their living environment. Pay attention to the cleanliness of their living area and schedule regular cleaning to prevent the entry of pathogens that could lead to illness.

4. If your cat exhibits other symptoms along with coughing, it's essential to seek veterinary attention promptly and follow the advice of a pet doctor for medication and treatment.

It's important to note that cats have particularly sensitive respiratory systems. Viral infections can be lifethreatening, so it's crucial to be extra vigilant when your cat is coughing. If you have any further questions or concerns, don't hesitate to consult an online veterinary expert.