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My cat has a crackled purr, isn't eating, and is hiding. What's wrong?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 10 lbs

My cat seems to be having a little bit of problems breathing, maybe. His purr is off and doesn't continually rumble but is very crackled. He also seems a little a times like he needs to throw up bc he will gag a little. But he also didn't eat dinner tonight. And right now he is huddled under a bead.

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 26th, 2017

Upper and lower respiratory issues in cats are very worrisome. Cats are prone to getting asthma (causes wheezes), pneumonia (crackles heard in the lungs), and upper respiratory infections (crackles in the nasal passage). They can also get heart problems that lead to fluid build up in the lungs. I would highly recommend taking Prince to your local vet to get examined thoroughly, potential bloodwork and x-rays of his chest. We need more information on what is actually going on internally so that we can select the proper course of treatment for Prince to hopefuly get him back on his feet. I would try to get him in as soon as possible, because it often is a sign of a serious illness whenever a cat decides to refuse food. Cats are masters at hiding illness, so we must take these symptoms that Prince is showing right now, very seriously and get him treated right away. Best wishes with Prince and I hope that he feels better soon.

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    Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    I would be concerned about a few different possibilities in your kitty. We would worry about respiratory infections, cardiac disease leading to respiratory problems as a result of fluid buildup in the lungs, and asthma which we can see in cats. I would recommend a veterinary exam as soon as possible. The vet can listen to your cat's heart and lungs and may recommend x-rays to better evaluate the chest. The treatment will depend on the underlying cause. If your cat develops respiratory distress/is having difficulty breathing (for example open mouth breathing, large excursions of the chest and abdomen when breathing, panting) this evening then a trip to the emergency vet is recommended.

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