My cat hacks and coughs, but no hairball. Should I be concerned?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Male | neutered | 8 lbs
My cat keeps making this hacking up almost coughing type noise but he never throws up or has a hairball or anything. He does this at least twice a day, should I be worried?
4 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on November 23rd, 2017
This is a bit much to not be alarmed by it. It sounds like Spooky may actually be coughing , which could indicate a problem in the lungs (ie lung disease, heart disease, asthma, bronchitis, etc). I would suggest taking him to your vet to have his lungs listened to with a stethoscope and also any testing (i.e. radiographs) done if needed. I hope things work out well for your pet Spooky. Best wishes and take care.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on November 15th, 2017
Many times, coughing will look to people like the cat is trying to produce a hairball. I would be more suspicious that your kitty is dealing with an upper respiratory infection (likely a virus). You can try giving your pet 500mg of Lysine twice daily. If your pet begins acting lethargic, not eating or drinking well or having nasal/ocular discharge or the signs are prolonged, take your pet into the veterinarian. I hope this helps!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on December 8th, 2018
Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Coughing can be a sign of many conditions such as pneumonia, bronchitis, heart disease, among many other possibilities. I recommend that you have Mercy evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. Likely diagnostics to be performed include thoracic radiographs and bloodwork. Treatment would be dependent on findings. Good luck and have a good day!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on January 24th, 2019
If the hairball remedy is not effective, consider a physical exam with your veterinarian. Other causes may include foreign body, infection, inflammation or allergies. Monitor for lethargy, difficulty breathing, blue gums, decreased appetite coughing or vomiting. These are symptoms that definitely need to be addressed by your veterinarian.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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