Although it's not pleasant to listen to, gagging isn't unusual in cats, but it can be a sign that your cat needs to see a vet. Today our Lexington vets discuss the reasons for cat gagging and when to head to the vet.
Why Does My Cat Keep Gagging?
Gagging is a natural bodily function if your cat is trying to expel something but there are many other reasons why your cat may be gagging, here are just a few:
Expelling a Hairball
Hairballs are clumps of fur that form in your cat's stomach as they groom themselves. Since the cat's digestive system isn't able to dissolve the clump of fur, your cat will remove it from their stomach by vomiting. In some cases it takes several attempts to expel the hairball and for your cat to stop gagging.
Trying to Remove Something From Their Throat
Like dogs, many cats eat or swallow things that they shouldn't, and often these non-edible items will become lodged in their throat. If your cat is trying to remove something that is stuck in their throat they may stretch out their neck, open their mouth, and gag or swallow repeatedly. If your cat appears to have something caught in their throat get to an emergency vet as quickly as possible.
Overate or Ate Their Food Too Quickly
If your cat overeats or simply eats too fast they can become nauseous and begin gagging. If this is a frequent occurrence for your cat you, may want to try serving small meals, switching to canned cat food, or purchasing a special bowl that will help to slow your feline's eating.
Kidney Disease
Kidney disease can lead to a buildup of waste products in your cat's bloodstream. This accumulation can leave your cat feeling nauseous and lethargic which may cause vomiting and weight loss.
Other signs of kidney disease in cats include:- Unkempt appearance
- Increased frequency of urination
- Excessive thirst
Asthma
Yes, cats can suffer from asthma. If your feline friend is having an asthma attack, they will likely cough, wheeze, and gag while assuming a hunched position close to the ground with their neck extended forward as if trying to expel a hairball. Other signs of asthma in cats include:
- Rapid breathing
- Open mouth breathing
- Increased swallowing
- Gurgling sounds from their throat
Heart Disease
Cats can suffer from both acquired heart disease (adult onset) and congenital heart disease (present at birth). Some other signs of heart disease can include:- Low energy/lethargy
- Increased respiratory rate
- Gagging
- Collapsing
Liver Disease
Liver disease is a fairly common condition in cats that can often be effectively managed if diagnosed early. Signs of liver disease can vary between cats but can include:
- loss of appetite
- Vomiting
- Gagging
- Diarrhea
- Jaundice
- Abdominal swelling
- Excessive urination and thirst
- Weight loss
Respiratory Illness
Breathing difficulties and gagging can occur due to several illnesses or diseases that affect your cat's respiratory system.
Viruses that cause upper respiratory infections and lead to gagging in cats include feline herpesvirus type-1 (FVR) and feline calicivirus (FCV). Bordetella bronchiseptica (B. bronchiseptica) and Chlamydophila felis (C. felis) are common bacterial infections that can also cause respiratory illness and gagging in cats. Fungal infections and heartworms can also lead to severe respiratory symptoms and gagging. Vaccinating your cat is recommended to avoid several of these conditions.
Although your cat's respiratory issues and gagging may be due to a minor issue such as a cat cold, it is always best to err on the side of caution and see your vet if symptoms persist for more than a day or two, or if symptoms become more severe.
In Conclusion
If your cat gags and vomits once or twice but then seems fine there is probably nothing to be concerned about. However, if the gagging persists or if your cat shows other symptoms along with gagging it's time to call your vet.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.