Why Is Your Senior Cat Coughing? Top Reasons Explained

Common Causes of Coughing in Senior Cats

Several factors can contribute to coughing in older cats. These range from relatively mild conditions to more serious diseases that require immediate veterinary attention. Understanding these potential causes is the first step in ensuring your cat receives the appropriate care.

Feline Asthma

Asthma, also known as allergic bronchitis, is a common respiratory disease in cats of all ages, including seniors. It involves inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. The condition can be triggered by allergens such as pollen, dust mites, or smoke.

• Symptoms may include a dry, hacking cough.
• You might also notice wheezing sounds during breathing.
• In severe cases, cats may exhibit open-mouth breathing.

Heart Disease

Heart disease, particularly hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), is a significant concern in senior cats. HCM causes thickening of the heart muscle, which can lead to fluid buildup in the lungs (pulmonary edema). This fluid accumulation can trigger coughing and difficulty breathing.

• Coughing associated with heart disease is often accompanied by rapid breathing.
• Lethargy and decreased appetite are also common signs.
• A veterinarian can diagnose heart disease through an examination and imaging tests.

Bronchitis

Bronchitis, or inflammation of the bronchi, can be acute or chronic. Acute bronchitis is often caused by a viral or bacterial infection, while chronic bronchitis may be related to allergies or irritants. Both forms can result in a persistent cough.

• A wet cough, producing phlegm, may indicate bronchitis.
• Other symptoms can include sneezing and nasal discharge.
• Treatment often involves antibiotics or anti-inflammatory medications.

Respiratory Infections

Respiratory infections, such as feline herpesvirus or calicivirus, can cause coughing, sneezing, and nasal discharge in senior cats. While cats are often vaccinated against these viruses, the immunity can wane over time, making older cats more susceptible. These infections can lead to inflammation and irritation of the airways, resulting in coughing.

• Fever and loss of appetite are common signs of infection.
• Eye discharge may also be present.
• Veterinary care can help manage the symptoms and prevent secondary infections.

Lung Tumors

Although less common, lung tumors can cause coughing in senior cats. These tumors can compress the airways or cause inflammation, leading to a chronic cough. Diagnosis typically requires imaging tests, such as X-rays or CT scans.

• The cough may worsen over time.
• Other symptoms can include weight loss and lethargy.
• Treatment options depend on the type and stage of the tumor.

Foreign Bodies

Sometimes, a foreign object, such as a blade of grass or a small toy, can become lodged in a cat’s airway, causing irritation and coughing. This is more common in younger cats, but senior cats can also experience this issue, particularly if they have pre-existing respiratory conditions.

• The cough may start suddenly and be accompanied by gagging.
• Difficulty breathing is also possible.
• Veterinary intervention is necessary to remove the foreign object.

Heartworm Disease

Heartworm disease, while more common in dogs, can also affect cats. Heartworms are parasites that live in the heart and lungs, causing inflammation and damage. This can lead to coughing, difficulty breathing, and other respiratory problems.

• Heartworm disease can be difficult to diagnose in cats.
• Symptoms may be subtle or mimic other respiratory conditions.
• Prevention is the best approach through regular heartworm medication.

Pleural Effusion

Pleural effusion is the accumulation of fluid in the space between the lungs and the chest wall. This fluid can compress the lungs, making it difficult to breathe and causing coughing. Pleural effusion can be caused by various underlying conditions, including heart disease, cancer, and infection.

• Rapid, shallow breathing is a common sign.
• The cat may also exhibit lethargy and decreased appetite.
• Treatment involves draining the fluid and addressing the underlying cause.

Environmental Irritants

Exposure to environmental irritants such as smoke, dust, or strong odors can trigger coughing in sensitive cats, especially seniors. These irritants can inflame the airways and exacerbate existing respiratory conditions.

• Avoid exposing your cat to smoke and strong chemicals.
• Use air purifiers to reduce dust and allergens in the home.
• Ensure proper ventilation in the house.

Tracheal Collapse

Tracheal collapse, a weakening of the trachea (windpipe), is less common in cats than in dogs, but it can occur, especially in older cats with underlying respiratory issues. The collapse can lead to a harsh, honking cough.

• The cough may be triggered by excitement or exercise.
• Obesity can exacerbate the condition.
• Treatment may involve medication or surgery.

When to Seek Veterinary Care

It’s essential to monitor your senior cat closely if they are coughing. While occasional coughing might be harmless, certain signs warrant immediate veterinary attention. Prompt diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve your cat’s quality of life and prevent serious complications.

• If the coughing is persistent or worsening.
• If your cat is having difficulty breathing or exhibiting rapid breathing.
• If your cat is lethargic, losing appetite, or showing other signs of illness.
• If the cough is accompanied by wheezing, gagging, or producing phlegm.
• If you suspect your cat has ingested a foreign object.

Your veterinarian will perform a thorough examination, which may include listening to your cat’s lungs, taking blood samples, and performing imaging tests such as X-rays or ultrasound. These tests will help determine the underlying cause of the coughing and guide the appropriate treatment plan.

Treatment options vary depending on the diagnosis. They may include medications such as bronchodilators, corticosteroids, antibiotics, or heart medications. In some cases, supportive care such as oxygen therapy or fluid drainage may be necessary.