It’s natural for cat lovers to project human characteristics onto their feline companions. We often see our cats as understanding our emotions, and attribute traits like intelligence, sensitivity, or playfulness to them – qualities we recognize in ourselves and other people. We know they share some physical similarities with us too; they can get sick or feel tired just like humans. But where do these parallels stop? Take hiccups, for example. Hiccups are a common and usually harmless experience for humans. But Can Cats Have Hiccups? And if they do, is it something to be concerned about?
“Cat hiccups are more common in kittens than adult cats, however, like humans, they can happen at any time or age,” explains Dr. Al Townsend, a veterinarian with extensive experience at Eastern Shore Animal Hospital and WellPet. So, the short answer is yes, cats can indeed experience hiccups, and while they are often normal, understanding why they happen and when to be concerned is crucial for any cat owner.
What Causes Hiccups in Cats?
Hiccups, in general, are the result of involuntary contractions of the diaphragm occurring at the same time as the glottis (the part of the larynx consisting of the vocal cords and the opening between them) closes. “This is caused by irritation of the nerve that runs to the diaphragm,” clarifies Dr. Oscar E. Chavez, a veterinarian with expertise from BVetMed, MRCVS, and MBA.
But what triggers this nerve irritation and subsequent involuntary action in cats? Similar to humans, cats can have hiccups for a variety of reasons. The most frequently observed cause is related to eating habits, particularly overeating or eating too quickly. “Cats tend not to chew their food properly, thus causing them to swallow extra air, resulting in spasms in the diaphragm,” notes Dr. Townsend. When a cat gulps down their food too fast, they can ingest excess air, which can irritate the diaphragm and lead to those familiar jerky spasms of hiccups.
Another common culprit behind cat hiccups is hairballs. The process of trying to expel a hairball can irritate the throat and esophagus. As the body works to dislodge the accumulated fur, this irritation can sometimes trigger the hiccup reflex. Think of it as a similar mechanism to how a tickle in your throat might make you cough – in this case, it can manifest as hiccups in your feline friend.
However, while often benign, hiccups in cats can occasionally signal more serious underlying health issues, especially if they are prolonged or occur frequently, particularly in older cats. Conditions such as asthma, tumors in the chest or abdomen, heart disease, or even parasitic infections can sometimes manifest as persistent hiccups. Furthermore, the ingestion of a foreign body or food allergies could also be contributing factors to chronic cat hiccups. Therefore, while a bout of hiccups is usually nothing to worry about, it’s important to be aware of when they might indicate a need for veterinary attention.
How Long Should ‘Normal’ Cat Hiccups Last?
Typically, normal cat hiccups are short-lived and resolve on their own without intervention. They should generally not last longer than a day, and most often, they disappear within a few hours. “If a cat regularly gets hiccups after eating, that can be attributed to eating too much or too fast, but should still be monitored,” advises Dr. Townsend. If you notice your cat experiencing hiccups shortly after meals, it’s likely related to their eating habits. While usually not alarming, it’s still a good idea to keep an eye on the frequency and duration.
The key is to observe the pattern and duration of the hiccups. “Anything that seems to last a long time or become very frequent should be checked by a veterinarian,” Dr. Townsend emphasizes. Occasional, brief hiccups are generally normal, but persistent or increasingly frequent episodes warrant a veterinary consultation to rule out any potential underlying health concerns.
Are There Common Cures for Hiccups in Cats?
While there are a few home remedies that might help alleviate your cat’s hiccups, particularly if they seem related to food or water intake, it’s essential to exercise caution and consult with a veterinarian before attempting any extensive at-home treatments. Dr. Chavez wisely cautions pet owners against trying too many unverified home therapies without professional guidance.
“General tips, though, include making sure your cat has plenty of fresh food and water available, and giving the cat some calm, quiet time,” he suggests. Ensuring your cat is well-hydrated and has access to food can sometimes help regulate their system. Providing a peaceful environment can also reduce stress, which might indirectly contribute to hiccups. “Some cats also prefer running water, so a tap or circulating fountain could be made available for them. Never attempt to force a cat to eat or drink.” If hydration is suspected to be a factor, offering running water from a faucet or a pet fountain might encourage your cat to drink more. However, it is crucial to emphasize that you should never force your cat to eat or drink, as this can be stressful and potentially harmful.
If overeating seems to be the issue behind your cat’s hiccups, Dr. Townsend recommends adjusting their feeding routine. “Feeding your cat smaller, spaced out portions, or raising her food bowl so it’s more difficult to reach, essentially forcing the cat to eat more slowly,” can be beneficial. Smaller, more frequent meals can prevent your cat from gulping down large quantities of food at once. Elevating the food bowl can also encourage slower eating as it changes the cat’s posture while eating.
Dr. Katie Grzyb, a veterinarian practicing in Brooklyn, offers another practical tip for slowing down fast eaters. “Placing an object—such as a toy—in your cat’s food bowl can also slow down the process of eating. Make sure it is large enough that the cat cannot ingest it,” she advises. A large, non-edible object in the food bowl creates an obstacle that forces the cat to eat around it, naturally slowing down their eating pace.
For hiccups in cats that appear to be linked to hairballs, dietary adjustments might be helpful. “Try switching to a diet of specialized food to manage hairball issues, but consult with your veterinarian before making any big dietary changes,” recommends Dr. Grzyb. Hairball-specific cat foods are formulated to help reduce hairball formation and facilitate their passage through the digestive system. However, it’s always best to consult with your veterinarian before making significant changes to your cat’s diet. Dr. Grzyb also recommends “a natural, safe supplement called Laxatone to help get rid of hairballs in cats. Laxatone is available for purchase from many veterinary offices.” Laxatone and similar products can aid in the elimination of hairballs and may be particularly helpful if hairballs are suspected to be contributing to your cat’s hiccups.
Should You Worry About Cat Hiccups?
To reiterate, occasional cat hiccups, especially those associated with feeding, are generally considered normal and are usually not a cause for alarm. However, it’s crucial to remember that these hiccups should be infrequent and short-lived, typically resolving within a day. Hiccups that persist beyond this timeframe or become chronic could be indicative of underlying health problems requiring veterinary attention.
If you observe that your cat is experiencing sudden and chronic hiccups, or if the hiccups last for an extended period, it is always prudent to consult with a veterinarian. They can properly evaluate your cat’s condition, determine the underlying cause of the hiccups, and discuss appropriate treatment options if necessary. Being proactive and seeking veterinary advice when you notice persistent or unusual hiccups is essential for ensuring your feline companion’s health and well-being.
