My cat makes whistling or snoring sounds when breathing. Is it normal?

Upper respiratory infections, allergies, and minor issues with the throat or lungs can sometimes cause congestion or coughing/snoring sounds, however minor cases may resolve on their own with little symptoms. If your cat is still eating and drinking and acting normally, it may just be best to keep an eye on her and watch for any changes. If you do see symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, loss of appetite, fever, difficulty breathing or discharge from the eyes and nose, then scheduling a veterinary appointment for further care is best. If she stays normal, then bringing it up at your next vet checkup if still concerned is best so that your vet can make sure to examine those areas more thoroughly.

Unless your cat is a brachycephalic (smooshed face) breed then a loud breathing is not normal and could indicate a problem such as a respiratory infection, a nasopharyngeal polyp or other growth, a foreign body stuck in the nasal passages, or even an infected tooth root. I would recommend bringing Princess in for her vet to examine her for this issue.

Some kitties, just like humans, do snore. I have two cats who snore very loud, when they are completely relaxed. This can be quite normal, but in some instances it could be a sign of an upper respiratory infection, or a mass or foreign body in the upper airways. If your cat has always snored, and if it is not a recent condition and he has no discharge from his nose, I would not worry. I see that Salem is not neutered, which makes him develop a broad head and cheeks. This can also change the anatomy of the airways and cause a tom to snore. If Salem coughs, has a discharge or trouble breathing, I suggest you take him to your veterinarian for an exam.

Penelope is too cute. If this breathing occurs only when she purrs or sleeps, it may be normal for her. If she was sick, I'd expect the breathing to occur like that all the time. Having her checked out by a vet is best, however.

It may be unrelated to her surgery, but this sounds like her respiratory function is compromised. This could be due to feline asthma, bacterial pneumonia or something similar. Respiratory distress in cats can be dangerous so I would bring her in to a veterinarian ASAP. They will likely do some chest x-rays and possibly some blood work to look for signs of infection. Good luck!

Hi there and what a sweet kitten you have. If Freya is eating, drinking, and very playful as you describe this might be a problem that can wait until her first check up. Please look closely at her eyes and nose to see if she has any discharge from them. Sometimes kitten can have upper respiratory viruses that can make their breathing more audible. If she seems do be doing well otherwise, I would monitor for now. If she stops eating, seems lethargic, or you have any further major concern please take her to your veterinarian. Freya's first kitten check up should be at 8 weeks, so I would recommend to schedule a general health check up for her soon. She will get her first vaccine and you can mention this problem to the doctor at that time as well.

Seek out a veterinarian who does acupuncture. Many cats actually tolerate it very well and it can be extremely helpful for chronic upper respiratory issues such as snoring. If she has a bacterial upper respiratory infection, antibiotics may be needed, but it sounds like she probably has some underlying respiratory issues as well. That's where I think the acupuncture could benefit. Also, keep a humidifier going in your home; increased moisture in the air may help as well. Thanks for asking Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!