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Updated on September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Male | neutered | 7 years and 11 months old | 13 lbs
My cat has had a very strange breathing pattern for the past few weeks. Whenever he purrs it sounds very constricted, almost like a bird call. He also follows up with a dry sounding swallow and often makes sounds as if he were about to vomit. Also, very recently he has started sneezing. What could it be??? Does he need to see a vet or is there something I can do??
2 Answers

Answered By Sarah Derksen, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on July 10th, 2017
Answered By Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA
Veterinarian
Published on May 13th, 2019
Breathing difficulties should always be checked by a vet as they can rapidly deteriorate. It sounds like he has developed a severe respiratory infection and will possibly require anti-inflammatories, antibiotics and even medication to loosen the mucus
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