Cat Cough

Any irritation of the breathing tubes will trigger one of your cat's best defense mechanisms the cough reflex. In a cough, a violent rush of air cleans material from the breathing tubes and the lungs. Pollens and pollution can irritate the respiratory system, and even mild irritations to the breathing tubes will initiate the cough reflex.

If your cat's cough is accompanied by fever, difficult breathing, weight loss, low energy,blue gums and tongue, and a history of heart murmur, heart disease, or a malignant tumor, see your doctor. Your pet may have a serious disease needing veterinary assistance.

Cat Cough Home Remedies

To help clear the unwanted material from breathing tubes, use a cool mist vaporizer inthe bathroom or take your pet into the bathroom and turn on the hot shower to produce thick clouds of steam. Some relief from the congestion should be seen in fifteen minutes. If there is no improvement, see your doctor. It your pet becomes more distressed in the-steam room or when using the cool-mist vaporizer. stop the treatment and see your doctor. Cough syrup containing just guaifenes in can be used.

Cat Cough Treatment

An examination of the throat, neck, andchest will be made. If pneumonia or lung involvement is suspected, blood tests and achest X-ray will be taken. Antibiotics will be prescribed if a bacterial infection is suspected.Cough depressants may be given if the coughis severe enough to injure the delicate breathing-tube lining.

If a heart problem such as cardiomyopathyor metastasis (spread) of a malignant tumor issuspected, heartworm blood tests, urinalysis, radiographs, an electrocardiogram, and an echo cardiogram may be necessary to diagnose thecondition and monitor the treatment.

Bronchial disease is common in cats.Along with blood tests and radiographs, your veterinarian may do a tracheobronchial wash and endoscopy to evaluate your cat's condition. Your doctor will prescribe antibiotics, bronchodilators, and/or steroids. Feline bronchitis is easier to manage than to cure. A consultation with a veterinary respiratory specialist may be advised