It can be alarming when your cat starts hacking and gasping. While it might look like your cat is choking, it’s important to understand the potential causes behind this behavior. Sometimes, what appears to be choking is actually gagging due to discomfort or other underlying health issues. Figuring out the difference is key to helping your feline friend.
One common reason for gagging and hacking in cats is hairballs. When cats groom themselves, they ingest hair, which can accumulate in their digestive system. If a hairball becomes too large to pass easily, your cat will attempt to cough it up. This process often involves gagging, hacking, and open-mouthed breathing, which can mimic choking. If your cat experiences hairballs frequently, it’s worth consulting your veterinarian. According to the Cornell Feline Health Center, frequent hairballs can indicate underlying gastrointestinal issues or overgrooming.
However, true choking in cats does occur, often when an object becomes lodged in their throat or airway. This could be a piece of food, a toy, or anything else your cat might try to swallow. If you suspect your cat is truly choking, it’s an emergency. Signs of choking include excessive drooling, pawing at the mouth, frantic behavior, and difficulty breathing.
It’s also crucial to differentiate between gagging and coughing in cats. While both might sound similar, coughing can be a symptom of more serious conditions like asthma or lung infections. Coughing often sounds drier and may come from deeper in the chest, whereas gagging is usually associated with the throat or upper digestive tract. If you are unsure whether your cat is coughing or gagging, or if these episodes are frequent, consulting with your veterinarian is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment. They may recommend tests like X-rays or blood work to pinpoint the cause of your cat’s distress and ensure they receive the appropriate care.
Ultimately, if you are concerned about your cat’s gagging or hacking, especially if it seems sudden, severe, or frequent, seeking veterinary advice is always the best course of action. Your vet can determine the underlying cause and provide guidance on how to manage the issue, whether it’s related to hairballs, potential choking hazards, or other health concerns.
