TL;DR: A deep chest cough in cats often signals underlying respiratory issues like asthma and requires a veterinary exam within 24 to 48 hours, unless emergency symptoms like gasping are present.
What does a deep chest cough in cats look and sound like?
A deep chest cough in cats often sounds like a rhythmic, dry hacking or wheezing. It is frequently mistaken for a cat trying to produce a hairball; however, if the cat is crouched low to the ground with their neck extended and nothing is coughed up, it is likely a respiratory issue. Common causes include feline asthma, bronchitis, or even heartworm disease.
How do I know if my cat's cough is a medical emergency?
- Schedule an appointment with your veterinarian within 24 to 48 hours for a persistent cough, as the urgency level is Medium.
- Seek immediate medical attention if your cat exhibits high-priority emergency signs such as open-mouth breathing, blue-tinged gums, or extreme lethargy.
How does recording a video of my cat coughing help the veterinarian?
- A recording captures symptoms that cats often hide at the clinic due to stress-induced adrenaline.
- A clear video allows your veterinary team to analyze the cat's posture and the specific sound of the cough.
- This visual evidence helps differentiate between cardiac issues, asthma, and respiratory infections, leading to a faster and more accurate diagnosis.
Clinical Context (Merck Veterinary Manual)
While the provided text excerpts do not specifically address "deep chest cough" in cats, they offer related information on coughing, respiratory issues, and feline heart failure. Coughing is not a typical sign of heart failure in cats, but pleural effusion, often associated with left heart failure in this species, can be identified radiographically. Bronchodilators (albuterol, terbutaline) and oral or inhaled corticosteroids (prednisolone, dexamethasone, fluticasone, budesonide) may be considered for cats with respiratory compromise. If medical management is unsuccessful, further diagnostics, including thoracic radiographs and tracheal washes for cytology and culture, should be pursued to identify underlying causes.
Chapter: Cardiology, Respiratory
Source: The Merck Veterinary Manual, 11th Edition (Page 102)