My cat has a cough. What are less bitter medicine options for cats?

Unfortunately no, there are not. Many human medications, especially OTC ones, can be toxic to cats and fatal if given. It's true that Buddha could be coughing because of a respiratory infection, but it could also be due to allergies or something more serious such as heart disease. I would have him seen by a vet. The vet can diagnose what is causing his cough, and can prescribe safe medications for him. I can also give you some things at home that may help him, and are safe to use in conjunction with medications from the vet. First, you can try starting him on an L-lysine supplement - this is an amino acid that has been shown to help the immune system fight off respiratory infections more effectively. Enisyl and Viralys are both good brands, and can be purchased over the counter without a prescription - just follow the dosing instructions on the label based on your cat's weight. If he's congested, you can also try using a humidifier or bringing him into the bathroom with the door closed while you take a hot shower - the steam and humidity help to break up congestion and temporarily relieve symptoms associated with respiratory infections. Good luck, I hope this helps!

Some over the counter antihistamines may provide relief. These include Benadryl (diphenhydramine) or Chlorpheneramine. Antihistamines alone are usually not enough to provide real relief though. Ideally, you should contact your veterinarian to discuss the best treatment and dosing for OTC drugs. There are also prescription medications that can be dispensed after an exam. Fish oil supplements should be considered as a part of any treatment. They can promote healthy skin and coat and have some natural anti-inflammatory properties. Specific products are EicosaCaps, DermCaps or Welactin. Rule out other causes, if it hasn't been done already, such as fleas, skin infection or food sensitivities.

Hello, sorry to hear about your kittens. Allergies in your cat can be managed with medications and environmental modifications. Do not use any aerosolized sprays, candles, or fragrances because this can exacerbate the coughing. Clean often to limit the amount of dust around the house. Sometimes you may have to use litter that clumps and has less sand in it. Dry food may need to be moistened with water so that the food dust does not cause irritation. Hope this helps and best of luck.

I am sorry to hear that! Coughing in a cat is concerning. It may be allergies as you mentioned, although I also worry about heart disease, asthma, and heartworms in a coughing cat. Since they all have different treatments I would recommend having an x-ray +/- bloodwork done first to see how to tailor Fifi's therapy! The good news is that, depending on what the diagnosis is, some respond very well to prescription medications! I hope this helps and that Fifi feels better soon!

Benadryl (diphenhydramine) can be used for cats. Other over the counter antihistamines for use in cats include Chlor-Trimeton® (chlorpheneramine), Claritin® (loratadine) and Zyrtec® (cetirizine). You can get doses for any of the above from your veterinarian. Legally, we are prohibited from supplying doses for medications, even OTC meds, in the absence of a physical exam and a VPCR (Veterinarian-Patient-Client Relationship).

I'm so sorry to hear about what is going on with Kitty. Unfortunately, all of the medications we recommend are generally prescriptions that need to be dispensed by your family veterinarian. If your cat has an upper respiratory infection, there are some liquid options available like Clavamox or Amoxicillin. Please have Kitty seen by your vet so they can prescribe the appropriate medication.

You can try liquid Benadryl. Look for the dye free, unflavored version. Another option would be to have it compounded into a palatable tablet or chewable. Your veterinarian may have a preferred compounding pharmacy that he or she works with for these cases.