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My cat suddenly coughs while sleeping and wakes up. What's happening?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 13 years and 3 months old | 13.2 lbs

My cat has been coughing for almost a week. always during the middle of sleep, coughing wakes him up and stopped after less than one minute. and he goes back to sleep after that. he eats and plays like usual. I live in China so I want to have some professional suggestion before I take him to the vet. thank you!

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Emily Fukuzato, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 15th, 2019

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.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on February 24th, 2017
We commonly see coughing in cats associated with a few different disease processes including chronic bronchitis, asthma, and primary lung disease. An underlying heart condition can also be the cause. You should really get her chest radiographed to get to the bottom of the cause. Chronic coughing in cats that isn't treated can be very problematic. The inflammation that occurs along the respiratory tract can be detrimental in some cases, so it is best to get her seen asap for treatment. Viral infections typically cause upper airway signs and symptoms which involves mostly sneezing and eye discharge. Coughing suggests a lower airway disease process and the fact that they are occurring more at night is suggestive of a possible heart condition.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Rebecca, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on May 31st, 2017
Hi. I would have Missy evaluated by her veterinarian. A cough starting in an older cat could potentially be signs of heart disease. Other possibilities include asthma, bronchitis, or other inflammatory disease. Her veterinarian can do a physical exam, listening to her heart and lungs and from there may recommend radiographs or bloodwork to assess her health.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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