Coughing in pets is not always a signal of illness — often it is a natural reaction to an irritant. The main thing is to stay calm and figure out what is bothering your furry friend.
Why Cats Cough
Coughing in cats is most often associated with foreign particles entering the stomach or respiratory tract. The most common cause is hairballs. When a cat thoroughly grooms itself, some hair gets into the stomach, where it eventually forms a ball. This irritates the mucous membrane, and the pet tries to cough it up.
The typical posture during coughing is when the cat lowers its head and raises its hindquarters. If the hairball does not come out, it is better to consult a veterinarian — they will recommend a safe dissolving agent.
Sometimes cats cough if they choke — on a toy, bag, insect, or bone. The latter are particularly dangerous, so it is important not to let your pet play with them.
Why Dogs Cough
The reasons for coughing in dogs can be similar:
- Too tight collar. If coughing occurs only during walks, the collar may be pressing on the throat. Try loosening it or switching to a harness.
- Choked. Small objects, food, or toys can get stuck in the throat. If the cough does not go away — consult a veterinarian immediately.
- Change in climate. A sudden temperature drop or dry air can also irritate the respiratory tract.
In most cases, coughing in pets is not a cause for panic. The main thing is to observe the animal's behavior and not delay a visit to a specialist if the cough recurs or worsens.
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