Persistent Cat Cough: Possible Causes and Solutions

Coughing is a common symptom in cats that can be indicative of an upper respiratory issue, affecting a range of organs including the nose, throat, larynx, bronchi, and lungs. Any irritation to these organs can trigger a coughing response in felines.

One: Common Causes of Frequent Coughing in Cats

More often than not, a cat's coughing is a result of irritation to the upper respiratory tract, from the nose to the lungs. The primary causes of upper respiratory infections in cats include viral infections that can invade the nasal passages and throat, followed by infectious bronchitis, which is typically caused by bacterial infections in the upper respiratory system and lungs, or parasitic infections affecting the lungs. Similar to humans, cats can also suffer from chronic bronchitis, or asthma. Other causes may involve foreign bodies in the throat or nose, or the inhalation of foreign objects. External impacts, such as trauma, pleural effusion, or lymph node enlargement that compresses the lungs, can also lead to pressure on the airways and frequent coughing.

Two: Treating Cats with Coughing

The treatment for a cat's cough depends on the underlying cause. Viral infections usually require antiviral and antibiotic medications. For infectious coughs, antibiotics such as doxycycline can be effective in combating a variety of bacterial infections. Chronic bronchitis may necessitate the use of corticosteroids. If a foreign body is present, it will need to be removed by a veterinarian. In cases of external trauma, special interventions may be required, such as administering止血和antibiotic injections for lung hemorrhage or draining fluid if there is pleural effusion.

Tip: Click on "Can Cats Cough?" to uncover more insights into the causes of coughing in cats.