Cat Cough Diagnosis: Asthma vs. Hairballs – Key Symptoms and Vet Care

If you notice your cat coughing, you may be wondering if the cause is cat asthma or a hairball. If it is a hairball, you will likely see your cat retching and gagging and eventually throwing up a hairball, but with asthma, you are more likely to see nonproductive coughing and other symptoms, such as wheezing. If your cat does not throw up a hairball and continues coughing, take him to the vet for a proper diagnosis.

In addition to a cough that doesn't produce a hairball or vomit, there are some other symptoms you will see if your cat has an asthma attack. You may notice your cat crouching down, hunching her shoulders, and extending her neck. Her cough may produce foamy mucus. You may notice that she is breathing quickly and that her breathing seems labored. Wheezing, blue lips and gums, and mouth breathing are other symptoms during an asthma attack.

An asthma attack can quickly be life-threatening. If your cat has difficulty breathing, is taking more than 40 breaths per minute, or has deep chest movements with labored breathing, this is a veterinary emergency. Take your cat to the vet or emergency clinic right away.

Asthma is not easy to diagnose in cats. Your vet will likely perform a variety of tests to rule out other conditions. These may include chest X-rays, blood tests, fecal parasite tests, bronchoalveolar lavage, and a cardiac exam.

Feline asthma treatment

Unfortunately, there is no cure for asthma, but it can be managed. Your vet may prescribe medication, such as a bronchodilator or corticosteroids. These medications may be injected, administered orally, or given with an inhaler.

Evaluate your environment and minimize any possible triggers for an asthma attack. These may include things like mold, pollen, dust from cat litter, cleaning products, and cigarette smoke. There is no single best food for cats with asthma. Consult your veterinarian to discuss the options and make the best choice for your cat.