Why is my cat coughing like he's vomiting, not eating, and lethargic?

Question

Dear vet, Our cat (male, 8 years) is choking as if he is going to vomit. But he does not vomit. He seems very tired and does not eat. He does not seem to have pain. The abdomen seems normal. He is urinating and going to the toilet regularly. What could that be? Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Male | neutered | 8 years and 6 months old

Laura Johnson VMD · Accepted Answer

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Elvis! I wonder if Elvis is actually coughing. When cats are coughing they sound like they are going to bring up a hairball or vomit but don't or white foam comes up. Coughing in cats commonly indicates asthma. Check his breathing when he is at rest or asleep ideally. If he is breathing with belly effort or his respiratory rate is greater than 40/min he should go to a Vet immediately. I am worried about Elvis, if he is truly trying to vomit possible causes are: foreign body obstruction (requiring surgery to remove), pancreatitis, metabolic condition like kidney failure, viral or bacterial infections, intestinal disease (IBD or cancer). Since he is not eating and is lethargic I recommend taking Elivis to the vet for an exam, blood work and possibly X-rays. If you can video tape the attempting to vomit episodes it may be helpful for your Vet. I hope this helps and I wish Elvis a speedy recovery!

Why is my cat coughing like he's vomiting, not eating, and lethargic?

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