Cats do cough, but not nearly as often as other animals. Retching or gagging, including “coughing up hairballs,” is often confused with a respiratory cough in cats. A cough is an expiratory effort producing a sudden, noisy expulsion of air from the lungs.

What should I do if my cat is coughing?

If your cat's cough is persistent, continues for more than a few days, or begins to worsen, take them to the vet. A cough that persists may be an indication of a respiratory infection or asthma.

What does a cat sound like when coughing?

Some causes of coughing will increase mucus production and produce a wet cough, while others will not and produce a dry cough. A dry cough sounds like a “honk” or “wheeze” and your cat does not swallow afterward.