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Why is my older cat wheezing? Is it from swallowing fur or asthma?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

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

My cat is a Siamese Ragdoll mix and is often cleaning himself but he ends up swallowing the fur he pulls up. We take the fur out of his mouth when we see but can't always be there. We think this could be causing him breathing problems as he started noticeably wheezing constantly. He is an older cat (we think 12) and there are no other factors I can think of. Is it the fur (and why now as he's always cleaned himself)? Is it something else causing the wheezing? Any suggestions will be appreciated!

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

Published on February 12th, 2019

Fur is not likely to cause breathing problems but it will cause hairballs. Wheezing is most commonly caused by asthma, allergic bronchitis, being extremely over weight and heartworm disease. I recommend to have Reggie seen by his veterinarian. The doctor will need to do radiographs to be able to see the lungs and heart and know what is going on. Treatment is prescribed based upon diagnosis. I hope this is helpful and please feel free to post any additional questions.

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