Why a kitten cough deserves attention
Cough is less common in kittens than sneezing, and it is not usually something to watch for long. Kittens are small and can become unwell quickly, so a cough that continues, or comes with other signs, is best checked by a vet.
Is it really a cough?
Owners often confuse a few similar sounds:
- Cough: a sudden forceful push of air from the chest, often with the neck stretched out and the body low.
- Sneeze: a fast burst of air through the nose.
- Reverse sneeze or gagging: a snorting or honking sound.
- Retching: heaving from the stomach, sometimes with foam or vomit (see cat dry heaving).
If you can, record a short video. It helps your vet decide what they are dealing with.
Common causes
- Upper respiratory infections: viral infections such as herpesvirus and calicivirus mainly cause sneezing and discharge, but may also cause cough. See our guide to the cat cold.
- Pneumonia: a lung infection that can cause a wet cough, tiredness and fast breathing. It needs prompt veterinary care.
- Asthma or bronchitis: inflammation of the airways, which can cause dry coughing and wheezing. It is less common in very young kittens. Our article on asthma versus hairballs explains the typical pattern.
- Parasites: some worms and lungworms can affect the airways (see signs a cat has worms).
- Inhaled material: a bit of litter, grass or food can set off sudden coughing.
- Irritants: smoke, strong scents or dust.
- Other causes: heart problems are possible but are less common in kittens.
Can litter cause coughing?
Dusty litter may irritate sensitive airways in some cats, and litter dust can be inhaled. If you suspect it, you can try a low-dust option and see whether the coughing improves, but do not wait to call a vet if your kitten is unwell or coughing repeatedly. Change litter gradually if you can.
Does my kitten have a cold?
Colds often cause sneezing, watery eyes, nasal discharge, lower appetite and tiredness. If your kitten also has a cough, it deserves a closer look. Read more on nasal signs.
When to see a vet
Call your vet promptly if your kitten:
- Coughs more than once or twice, or coughs repeatedly over a day
- Is not eating, drinking or playing as usual
- Has nasal or eye discharge
- Breathes fast or seems to work to breathe
Seek emergency care right away for open-mouth breathing, gasping, blue or pale gums, collapse, or if the cough starts suddenly after choking on something. Vaccination status matters too, since some serious infections of kittens are preventable. See whether indoor cats can get distemper.
What a vet may do
Your vet will listen to the heart and lungs, check temperature and gums, and may suggest chest X-rays, a fecal test for parasites, bloodwork or swabs. Treatment depends on the cause and may include antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, parasite treatment, fluids or oxygen.
What you can do in the meantime
- Keep your kitten warm, calm and away from other cats
- Avoid smoke, aerosols, scented candles and dusty products
- Offer water and food
- Note how often the cough happens and what it sounds like
Do not give human cough medicine or other medication unless your vet tells you to.
Frequently asked questions
What are the common causes of coughing in cats? Infections, asthma, parasites, irritants and inhaled material are among the usual reasons, along with other causes that a vet can identify.
When should I take a cat to the vet for wheezing? Wheezing is a sign of airway trouble. Arrange a vet visit, and go urgently if breathing looks difficult.
How do you know if a kitten has a cold? Sneezing, runny eyes or nose, lower appetite and tiredness are typical, but a vet should check any kitten that seems unwell.
Is a hairball a likely cause? Hairballs can cause retching, but a true cough in a young kitten more often points to another cause. If you hear coughing, have it checked.