My cat won't stop coughing. Can I give him human cough medicine?

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!

You are right, do not give Aura a human medication. Unfortunately many human medications are toxic to cats, and can be fatal if given. You can try bringing her into the bathroom when you take a shower to see if the steam helps a bit. Definitely have her seen by a vet in the morning. Best of luck.

Hi there and thank you for posting on Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Unfortunately, I cannot legally advise on medication or the dosages of medications over the internet. If Boo is coughing and having trouble breathing, he may have an upper respiratory infection or his symptoms may be caused by another medical condition such as feline asthma. Foul smelling saliva can be related to an oral infection such as a tooth infection or can be related to an upper respiratory infection. I would recommend Boo see his primary care veterinarian for an exam to help diagnose Boo's condition so he can receive the most appropriate treatment. Best wishes to you and Boo!

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I’m sorry to hear Lil Man isn’t feeling well. Coughing is usually a sign of respiratory disease and that is very concerning in a cat. There could be a problem in the lungs like fluid build up or asthma or a problem with the heart like heartworms or something congenital. There are many different possibilities and without seeing him it’s hard to say what the cause is. I recommend taking Lil Man to a vet right away for an exam and possible xrays and blood work. Try not to stress him out while transporting him because this could make him worse. Put him in a carrier and cover it with a blanket. Good luck and kisses to Lil Man!

I can't recommend doing this, it's illegal for me to do that without seeing Oscar in person first. I never recommend giving one animal another animal's medication. Plus, it may not be the correct treatment for his cough. He does have to see a vet, and if paying for a vet is an issue, I can put some links below to financial resources that may help. Best of luck. http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/resources/tips/trouble_affording_veterinary_care.html?credit=web http://canada.creditcards.com/credit-card-news/pet-financing-options-1264/ http://lessonsfromaparalyzeddog.com/when-pet-owners-cant-afford-veterinary-bills/

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 Wolfgang 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 night!

Hello and thank you for reaching out about your cat. The most common causes for coughing in a cat of his age are: heart disease and bronchitis/asthma. Other, but less likely causes: infection or parasite. When a cat is coughing it is very important to get him to the vet so a doctor can listen to his heart and lungs and take an xray. This will help to determine which medication(s) would be best to treat his cough. Thank you.