Feline Congestion & Coughing

Symptoms

• A cat experiencing congestion or coughing exhibits the same symptoms as humans do. The cat will sneeze, produce nasal discharge, cough regularly with or without the production of phlegm, sniffle, breathe heavily through its mouth or speak in a hoarse voice. The cat may have runny eyes, a fever, a lack of appetite and a noticeable lack of interest in regular activities. Any one or a combination of these symptoms is a strong indication that a cat is ill.

Causes

• While the symptoms of cat congestion and cough are similar to that of humans, the viral and bacterial agents involved are different. The two most common viruses causing cat congestion and cough are feline herpevirus-1 and feline calicivirus. Fortunately for the people caring for infected cats, neither of these viruses is transmittable to humans. The main bacterial agent present when cats experience cold-like symptoms is feline chlamydia. It causes the weepy eye symptoms and also is not transmittable to the human population.

Risks

• Most house cats are in little danger of contracting any of the congestion and cough viruses or bacteria because they live fairly solitary lives. Unless they regularly come in contact with other cats through the sharing of food and water bowls or by playing with the same toys, most cats remain disease free. Cats that roam outdoors have a higher risk of contracting the organisms that cause a cough or congestion. The greatest risk occurs when a new feline that just previously lived in a kennel or shelter situation comes into the home.

Nuisance

• As with humans, congestion and coughing for a cat is more of an irritation than a dramatically serious medical condition. However, if left unwatched and unsupported, these two conditions can lead to more dangerous illness such as an upper respiratory infection. Watch for signs of dehydration as cats are less likely to consume water when ill. This is especially true for kittens.

Treatment

• As with any virus, antibiotics will not work to rid the cat's system of feline viral infections. Support measures such as regularly wiping the cat's nose with a cotton ball to remove mucus, applying baby oil to the cat's nose to prevent dryness and cracking, running a vaporizer in the room and adding dietary supplements will help. For bacterial infections, veterinarians usually prescribe from the tetracycline family of antibiotics because the chlamydia organisms is highly susceptible to them. It is okay to give a cat a spray of human nose products such as Afrin, but not okay to give cats human fever reducers. Always check with your veterinarian first and don't forget to give your feline companion lots of tender, loving care and the opportunity for plenty of rest.

Allergies

• Cats can also experience allergic reactions to elements in their environment including the food they are fed. Most allergic reactions are distinguished by a runny nose rather than runny eyes. Dust, pollen, smoke, excessive perfumes, scented candles and scented carpet and furniture cleaning products can provoke allergic reactions in some cats.

Other Causes

• There are other reasons why a cat might cough or experience congestion. Hair or fur balls caused by ingesting hair while grooming are one cause for cough. Bronchitis can accompany congestion. Cats can develop asthma, which sounds like a moist cough after which the cat will have difficulty catching its breath but then act normal until the next event. Heart worms and parasites can also cause similar coughs. Cats suffering from heart disease also cough excessively at night.