Hearing our cats cough is fairly common for cat owners, particularly if their feline friend tends to get hairballs. However, coughing can result from various other causes beyond hairballs. Fortunately, many of these underlying issues are easy and can be treated effectively. While occasional coughing may be normal, persistent or severe coughing can indicate underlying health issues that require attention. There are some home remedies for cat cough that help treat this problem effectively.
Causes of cat cough
Before exploring home remedies for cat cough, it’s important to know that cat coughing could be
triggered by various causes such as; allergies, respiratory infections, asthma, Heartworms, respiratory tract cancer, or foreign bodies (ex; hairballs).
1. Allergies: Cats with allergies to plants, pollen, smoke, dust, and other contaminants in the
environment may be prone to developing coughing when exposed to these allergens. likewise,
some cats with food allergies may develop a cough when exposed to specific food. Fortunately,
allergies could be overcome easily using home remedies for cat cough.
2. Infections: may lead to a persistent cough as your cat tries to clear its airways.
3. Feline asthma: it is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways and lungs. Your cat may
show some of the following symptoms besides coughing: fast breathing, tiredness, and panting.
But no need to worry there are many home remedies for cat cough that could be used to deal
with feline asthma at home.
4. Heartworms: in this case, coughing is accompanied by symptoms of asthma, vomiting, loss of
appetite, or weight loss.
5. Hairballs: occur when cats groom themselves and ingest hair that gets caught on their
tongues. The tiny barbs on their tongues help push the hair down into the stomach, but since
cats can digest it, most of the hair typically moves through their digestive tract. When it
doesn’t it can form a clump that your cat will eventually cough up. It’s important to monitor how often it happens to ensure your cat stays healthy.
Home remedies for cat cough
The home remedies used to treat cat coughing vary depending on the caused factor. However, if your cat’s cough persists or worsens, consult your vet for a professional approach. Here are
some of the most effective home remedies for cat cough:
1. Check Throat for Foreign Bodies
Look for signs such as coughing, gagging, difficulty breathing, or excessive drooling. These can
indicate something is stuck. Open your cat’s mouth with care and look for any strange body. Try
to remove it carefully if you can hold it. If it’s not easily removed, take your cat to the vet.
2. Regularly clean cat eyes and nose
If your cat gets cold or has an allergic case, it will discharge mucus from the nose and eyes, which
will make your cat uncomfortable and lead it to cough. To help them recover faster, use a piece of cloth or cotton soaked in lukewarm water to clean their nose and eye discharge throughout the day. This will reduce congestion, and improve breathing and cough.
3. Use humidifiers in the room
If cat coughing is because they’re congested, a steam treatment or humidifier can help
loosen the cause of their congestion, and also soothe their nasal passages. Place a humidifier in
the room where the cat spends most of its time, and replace the water regularly. A
humidifier can moisturize the air and help reduce dryness that irritates a cat’s throat.
4. Exclude allergens
Another home remedy for cat cough is to provide a clean well-ventilated environment to your
allergic cat. Identifying and removing environmental irritants is important in managing cat
coughing. Avoid smoking indoors, keep strong cleaning products away from your cat, and
minimize exposure to dust and pollen. A healthier environment can be obtained by regular
cleaning for your furry friend.
5. Dietary adjustment
Make sure your cat is eating a healthy, balanced diet to boost their immune system and healthy
digestive system. Also, avoid food that your cat is allergic to and read the components of the
ready-made food you buy.
Choose food that contains beneficial ingredients like omega-3 & 6 fatty acids, lecithin, biotin, and zinc to support your cat’s overall health. It’s one of home remedies for cat cough.
6. Regular Grooming
Regular grooming is another effective home remedy for cat cough. Brushing your cat helps
reduce loose fur and shedding in your home, which can reduce allergens that trigger coughing.
This is especially important for long-haired breeds like Persian cats.
7. Regular medication
If your cat has a prescription for an infection (Cat flu, feline herpes virus, and feline calicivirus) or
chronic case (like feline asthma), you should make sure to give your cat the medication at the
scheduled time and avoid random intake or missing dosage.
8. Good hydration
One of the most important home remedies for cat cough is to encourage your cat to drink plenty
of water. It is a simple but effective home remedy for cat cough. Proper hydration can help thin
mucus, make your cat breathe easier, and reduce coughing. Consider adding water to dry food
or giving her wet food to increase water intake.
9. Add Probiotics to your cat’s diet
Probiotics can support your cat’s immune system and overall health. After talking to your vet, add a pet-safe probiotic supplement to the diet like yogurt.
10. Use Some other elements in their food
Apple Cider Vinegar
Diluted apple cider vinegar can help with respiratory problems due to its antimicrobial properties. Mix a little water (about 1 teaspoon) and give it to your cat. Consult your veterinarian before trying this medication.
Warm Chicken Broth
Warm, low-sodium chicken broth can be soothing and encourage hydration. Offer it to your cat
as a treat or mix with food.
Conclusion:
Cat coughing has many causes, and home remedies for cat cough can greatly help. You can
ease your cat’s pain by doing the mentioned home remedies like; regular grooming and
medication intake, using a humidifier, ensuring proper hydration, and making dietary changes.
But remember that a persistent cough should not be ignored. Consult a veterinarian if your cat’s
condition does not improve. With the right approach, combining the mentioned home remedies
for cat cough with professional advice from your vet, you can support your cat’s well-being and
overall health. Your attention and care can make a big difference in their lives.
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