My cat has a dry cough for a week. Is it serious? Should I see a vet?

Hi and thank you for using Petcoach. Unfortunately, there can be many possible reasons for a cat having a chronic cough, just as there are in people. Parasites can cause coughing in some cases, so it may be worth getting a broad spectrum dewormer and treating Jarbou. Other causes for coughing can be viral infection (feline upper respiratory complex), bacterial infection, foreign body or asthama/allergies/bronchitis. There really is no good way to know the difference without a vet exam and probably x-rays. Keep watch on his overall health and make sure that he continues to thrive, is on a good quality diet and deworming is a good start. Make sure there is no smoke, oils or other fumes present in his area. Here are some articles for more info. http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&S=0&C=0&A=1596 http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&S=0&C=0&A=665

In cats, this is usually related to asthma, hairballs or a heart problem. Because of his young age, I would not rule out a respiratory infection. If it persists for more than a day, I would recommend taking him to the vet in order to get it checked.

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.

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 Mylo 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 day!

Without an exam, it would be hard to say if there is an underlying health issue. If you believe the air may be too dry and is causing irritation, adding in a humidifier and checking your home's humidity levels may help resolve the issue. If Luka continues to cough, seems in distress like he can't breathe, or has other symptoms appear (changes to appetite, energy levels, nasal or eye discharge, etc) then it is best to seek out veterinary care to rule out any more serious health issues.

I am sorry to hear about Orchid! Coughing in cats is a concern and he should be examined by a veterinarian. We worry about a variety of issues ranging from a respiratory infection, feline asthma, heart disease, and more. The vet an examine Orchid, listen to his heart and lungs to check for abnormalities, and may recommend an x-ray to look at the lungs and heart. Based on their exam findings they can prescribe medication to help treat what is causing Orchid's cough.

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!