Why is my cat breathing loudly and sounding congested? Is it normal?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Female | spayed | 8 lbs
My cat breathes very louldly. Not like wheezing or anything. But like congested sounding. Is this normal? Is there anything I can do to help?
3 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on May 25th, 2018
Unless your cat is a brachycephalic (smooshed face) breed then a loud breathing is not normal and could indicate a problem such as a respiratory infection, a nasopharyngeal polyp or other growth, a foreign body stuck in the nasal passages, or even an infected tooth root. I would recommend bringing Princess in for her vet to examine her for this issue.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on April 8th, 2017
Your cat could have a mild upper respiratory infection that she acquired from birth or as a kitten resulting from not being vaccinated. This is very common in cats. The only way to know for sure would be to do infectious disease blood work at your veterinary clinic. If it is a mild infection like feline herpesvirus, she may not show any symptoms except for occasional sneezing and loud nasal breathing noises like what you're hearing.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on November 2nd, 2019
Hi, and thanks for your question. This sign could be compatible with a respiratory tract inflammation/infection or possibly to acute cardiac problem. A clinical examination at your local veterinarian is immediately essential to confirm these clinical suspicions and treat appropriately. Antibiotics may be needed. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further. If this answer was helpful please let us know, this will be used to improve our service!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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