My Cat Keeps Coughing in Pasadena, CA – Should I Call the Vet?
Cats, like humans, can suffer from asthma – a condition marked by inflammation and narrowing of the airways. If your cat has asthma, they might cough, wheeze, or appear to struggle with their breathing. These symptoms might appear or worsen after physical exertion or exposure to allergens or irritants such as smoke or dust. Asthma in cats often requires long-term management, which can involve medication to reduce airway inflammation and control symptoms.
Cardiac Issues: Can a Heart Condition Cause Coughing in Cats?
Heart conditions such as heart disease or heartworm infestation can indeed cause coughing in cats. This is because the heart and lungs work closely together. If the heart isn’t functioning correctly, it can put pressure on the lungs, leading to symptoms such as coughing, rapid breathing, and lethargy.
Respiratory Infections in Cats: Causes and Symptoms
Respiratory infections, like bronchitis, can lead to coughing in cats. Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections can affect the upper respiratory tract (nose and throat) or the lower respiratory tract (bronchi and lungs). Symptoms can include coughing, nasal discharge, sneezing, and sometimes fever or loss of appetite.
Foreign Bodies and Coughing
Cats are curious creatures and may accidentally inhale foreign objects while playing or exploring. This can lead to a sudden onset of coughing, choking, or gagging. If you suspect that your cat has inhaled a foreign object, it is essential to seek veterinary attention immediately.
Is Your Cat’s Environment Causing the Cough?
Sometimes, the cause of a cat’s cough can be found in their environment. Exposure to certain irritants, like tobacco smoke, dust, perfumes, or certain cleaning products, can cause coughing. Keeping your cat’s environment clean, smoke-free, and reducing exposure to potential irritants can help prevent coughing.
Recognizing the Urgency: Coughing as a Medical Emergency
While it can be tough to determine when a coughing cat requires immediate medical attention, certain signs signal a medical emergency. Difficulty breathing, a blue or pale gum color, rapid breathing or heart rate, or an inability to get comfortable are all signs that you should seek veterinary help right away.
Your Role as a Cat Parent: Monitoring and Observation
As a cat owner, your observations are invaluable in helping us diagnose and treat your pet. Noting when the coughing occurs, its frequency, any associated symptoms, and any potential exposure to irritants or foreign objects can help us determine the cause of the cough.
Veterinary Diagnosis: What to Expect at Altadena Pet Hospital
During your visit to Altadena Pet Hospital, our team will perform a thorough physical examination of your cat and ask you about the symptoms you have observed. We might recommend diagnostic tests like blood tests, X-rays, or ultrasounds. These tests help us confirm a diagnosis and rule out potential underlying conditions causing the cough.
Treatment Options at Altadena Pet Hospital
Once we have diagnosed the cause of your cat’s coughing, we will create a treatment plan that is tailored to your cat’s specific needs. This could include medication to treat infection or inflammation, changes to your cat’s environment, or surgery in the case of foreign bodies.
The Role of Preventive Care
Preventive care plays a vital role in maintaining your cat’s health. Regular check-ups, proper vaccinations, parasite control, dental care, and a balanced diet can help keep your cat healthy and prevent many conditions that could lead to coughing.
Altadena Pet Hospital: Your Partner in Pet Health
At Altadena Pet Hospital, we’re not just your local vet clinic – we’re your partner in pet health. If your cat is coughing and you’re unsure why, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at (626) 798-0738 or visit our website to book an appointment. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing the best possible care for your pet, and we’re always here to answer your questions and address your concerns.