15 Common Signs Why Is My Cat Gagging?

Gagging is a common problem in many cats and can be a sign of a number of underlying conditions. In this article, we talk about the 15 common signs or reasons “Why Is My Cat Gagging“. While some causes of gagging are relatively harmless and can be treated at home, others can be more serious and require veterinary attention.

Some of these signs are not very serious, like hairballs and eating too fast. Others are more serious, like poisoning and asthma. Knowing the possible causes of gagging in cats will help you recognize when your cat needs medical attention and provide appropriate care.

What is Gagging?

Gagging is a reflex that makes you feel like you’re choking, but normally you don’t block your airways.

Your body does this to push out anything that’s bothering your throat, like food, hairballs, or even something you shouldn’t have swallowed.

The sight can be a little scary, but it’s usually harmless.

15 Common Causes of Cat Gagging

1. Hairballs
2. Nausea
3. Heart disease
4. Kidney disease
5. Liver disease
6. Eating too fast
7. Swallowing a foreign object
8. Gastroenteritis
9. Asthma
10. Respiratory illness
11. Expelling a hairball
12. Poisoning
13. Cough
14. Motion sickness
15. Allergies

1. Hairballs

As cats lick their fur to keep it clean, they inevitably ingest some of it, which leads to the formation. In most cases, these pose no great danger and pass through the digestive tract without causing the cat any discomfort. However, there are cases where the hairballs become too large or too densely packed, which can lead to complications such as vomiting or constipation.

If your cat is suffering from vomiting or constipation, it is important to see a vet to rule out any underlying illnesses. While hairballs are often the cause, they can also indicate more serious problems that require immediate medical intervention. To minimize the risk of complications from hairballs, regular brushing is important. Brushing helps to remove loose fur before it can be swallowed during grooming. In addition, a high-fiber diet, possibly including special cat food, can facilitate the natural passage of hairballs through the digestive tract, lessening the chances of gagging episodes.

2. Nausea

Nausea can occur in cats for various reasons such as:

2.1 Gastrointestinal issues

It is often a symptom of gastrointestinal problems such as inflammatory bowel disease, stomach ulcers, and pancreatitis. If your cat is vomiting or has diarrhea and retching, you should take them to the vet to rule out underlying illnesses.

2.2 Infections

Viral and bacterial infections can cause nausea in cats. If your cat is gagging and has other symptoms such as fever, lethargy, or loss of appetite, it’s important to take them to the vet for diagnosis and treatment.

2.3 Toxins

Cats can become nauseous if they ingest toxins such as plants, chemicals or certain foods. If you think your cat has ingested a poison, you must take them to the emergency vet.

2.4 Motion sickness

Some cats suffer from motion sickness when traveling in cars or other vehicles. If your cat is gagging while traveling, keep the car cool and well ventilated, and avoid sudden stops and starts. You can also give your cat an over-the-counter motion sickness remedy before traveling.

2.5 Anxiety

Anxiety can also cause nausea in cats. If you think your cat is anxious, you should try to find the cause of his anxiety and eliminate it if possible. You can also try to provide your cat with a calming environment, such as a quiet room with their favorite toys.

3. Heart Disease

Heart disease is a serious condition that can affect cats of all ages and breeds. You must know the causes and symptoms of heart disease so you can get your cat to a vet as soon as possible if they show any of these signs.

One of the most common signs of heart disease in cats is retching. If the heart is not pumping blood properly, fluid can build up in the lungs and the cat may feel like choking. Other signs of heart disease in cats include coughing, shortness of breath, lethargy, loss of appetite and weight loss.

If you suspect that your cat is suffering from heart disease, it is important to take them to the vet as soon as possible. The vet can diagnose the disease and recommend treatment. Treatment of heart disease in cats may include medication, surgery or a combination of both.

Early diagnosis and treatment of heart disease can help improve your cat’s quality of life and life expectancy. If you are concerned about your cat’s health, please do not hesitate to contact your veterinarian.

4. Kidney Disease

Kidney disease is a common problem, especially in older cats. This insidious disease occurs when the kidneys, which are responsible for filtering waste products from the bloodstream, lose their important function. As a result, toxins build up, triggering a cascade of distressing symptoms.

Kidney disease manifests itself in various ways. Cats may show an increased thirst and frequently seek out water to satisfy their insatiable need. Frequent urination is another telltale sign as the body tries to flush out the accumulated waste. Weight loss, a result of reduced appetite and impaired nutrient absorption, further exacerbates the cat’s suffering.

If you suspect that your cat is suffering from kidney disease, prompt veterinary intervention is essential. A comprehensive examination, including blood and urine tests, will confirm the diagnosis and allow for timely treatment.

Treatment strategies for kidney disease include dietary changes tailored to the impaired function of the kidneys. Medication may be prescribed to alleviate symptoms and slow the progression of the disease. In severe cases, fluid therapy is important to compensate for fluid loss and maintain electrolyte balance.

Early detection and intervention are key to minimizing the impact of kidney disease on your cat’s well-being. By recognizing the warning signs and consulting a veterinarian, you can help your beloved companion overcome this difficult health hurdle with dignity and improve his quality of life.

5. Liver Disease

• Withhold food for 12-24 hours. This gives the stomach and intestines a chance to recover.
• Offer your cat small amounts of water regularly. This helps to prevent dehydration.
• If your cat is vomiting, you can give her an over-the-counter anti-emetic.
• If your cat is suffering from diarrhea, you can give him an over-the-counter antidiarrheal.
• Once your cat’s symptoms have improved, you can slowly reintroduce them to food. Start with small amounts of mild food, such as cooked chicken or rice.
• Gradually increase the amount of food you give your cat over the next few days.
• If your cat’s symptoms don’t improve within a few days or if they get worse, it’s important to take them back to the vet.

Liver disease is a serious condition that can cause a range of symptoms, including nausea and vomiting. In some cases, liver disease can also lead to fluid retention in the abdomen (ascites) or hepatic encephalopathy (confusion, drowsiness and seizures). If you suspect your cat has liver disease, it’s important to take them to the vet for a diagnosis and treatment.

There are several factors that can cause liver disease in cats, including:

• Viral infections, such as feline leukemia virus (FeLV) and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV)
• Bacterial infections, such as toxoplasmosis and hepatic abscesses
• Parasites, such as liver flukes and roundworms
• Certain medications, such as acetaminophen and chemotherapy drugs
• Metabolic disorders, such as diabetes and hyperthyroidism
• Cancer

The symptoms of liver disease can vary depending on the underlying cause, but if your cat keeps gagging, it may be a sign to seek veterinary care. Some of the most common symptoms are:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea along with gagging can occur in cats.
• Weight loss
• Loss of appetite, paired with episodes where your cat may be gagging, indicates it’s time to consult with a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and care.
• Lethargy
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and gums)
• Ascites (build-up of fluid in the abdomen)
• Hepatic encephalopathy (confusion, drowsiness, and seizures)

If you suspect that your cat is suffering from liver disease, it is important to take them to the vet for diagnosis and treatment. The vet will carry out a physical examination and may recommend blood and urine tests and imaging tests to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment of liver disease depends on the underlying cause.

In some cases, liver disease can be treated with medication and a change in diet. In other cases, surgery may be necessary. Early diagnosis and treatment can help to improve your cat’s quality of life and chances of survival.

6. Eating too Fast

It can cause cats to swallow air, not chew their food properly, become stressed, vomit and regurgitate their food. If a cat eats too quickly, it can also swallow too much air, which can lead to flatulence and bloating. This can be very uncomfortable for cats and can also lead to gagging issues.

In addition, eating too fast can lead to a condition known as megaesophagus. This is a condition in which the esophagus becomes enlarged and loses its ability to contract properly. This can make it difficult to swallow food and can also lead to vomiting.

There are some measures you can take to prevent your cat from eating too quickly. One of these measures is to feed her more frequently throughout the day with small meals. This will slow her down and give her time to chew her cat food properly, thereby reducing the chances of gagging. You can also try using a slow feeder, which makes it harder for cats to eat quickly.

If still your cat to gag after taking these measures, you should consult a vet to rule out other diseases that could be causing the problem.

7. Swallowing a Foreign Object

Swallowing a foreign body can be a serious problem for cats and warrants a visit to the vet. Linear foreign bodies such as string or yarn pose a significant risk as they can lead to intestinal tangling, which is a life-threatening situation. Cats can accidentally swallow foreign bodies while playing or grooming. On arrival at the veterinary clinic, the vet may induce vomiting to expel the foreign body or, in more complicated cases, perform surgery to remove it safely.

Cat owners need to be aware of potential hazards around their pets. Small objects such as hair ties, rubber bands and sewing needles should be kept out of reach to minimize the risk of ingestion. Cat owners should also avoid giving their pets toys that are small enough to be swallowed. If you suspect that your cat has swallowed a foreign object, you should consult a vet immediately to ensure the well-being of your furry companion.

As responsible pet owners, we must prioritize the safety and well-being of our feline friends. By being alert to potential dangers and acting immediately if a foreign object is ingested, we can help keep our cats healthy and happy. Remember, prevention is always better than cure. So take the necessary precautions to minimize the risk of your cat swallowing foreign objects.

8. Gastroenteritis

It can be caused by bacteria, viruses or parasites and lead to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain. In severe cases, gastroenteritis can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Treatment usually involves rest, hydration and medication to relieve symptoms.

8.1 Dietary indiscretion

Eating spoiled or poisonous food can cause gastroenteritis.

8.2 Infections

Bacteria, viruses and parasites can all cause gastroenteritis.

8.3 Stress

Stress can cause gastroenteritis in some cats.

If your cat is vomiting, has diarrhea or is suffering from abdominal pain, you should take your cat to the vet to rule out serious illnesses. The vet can determine the cause of the gastroenteritis and recommend the best treatment.

In most cases, gastroenteritis is a mild illness that resolves itself within a few days. However, if your cat has severe symptoms, such as vomiting more than three times in 24 hours, diarrhea for more than two days, or severe abdominal pain that does not improve with pain medication, you should see a veterinarian immediately.

Here are some things you can do to help your cat recover from gastroenteritis:

• Withhold food for 12-24 hours. This gives the stomach and intestines a chance to recover.
• Offer your cat small amounts of water regularly. This helps to prevent dehydration.
• If your cat is vomiting, you can give her an over-the-counter anti-emetic.
• If your cat is suffering from diarrhea, you can give him an over-the-counter antidiarrheal.
• Once your cat’s symptoms have improved, you can slowly reintroduce them to food. Start with small amounts of mild food, such as cooked chicken or rice.
• Gradually increase the amount of food you give your cat over the next few days.
• If your cat’s symptoms don’t improve within a few days or if they get worse, it’s important to take them back to the vet.

9. Asthma

Asthma is caused by inflammation and constriction of the airways, making it difficult for cats to breathe. Cats with asthma may cough, choke and wheeze. Asthma attacks can be triggered by allergens such as pollen, dust, smoke and even strong perfumes. If your cat is suffering from asthma symptoms, it’s important to take them to the vet for diagnosis and treatment.

There are a number of things that can be done to treat asthma in cats. These include:

• Avoiding allergens that trigger your cat’s asthma is the best way to prevent attacks. Common triggers include pollen, dust, smoke and certain foods.
• Several medications can be used to treat asthma in cats. These include bronchodilators, which help to open the airways, and steroids, which reduce inflammation.
• Some changes to the home environment can also help reduce your cat’s exposure to allergens and irritants, potentially reducing incidents where your cat may be gagging. These include the following measures:
  • Keeping your home clean and dust-free
  • Use of an air purifier
  • Avoiding the use of harsh chemicals
  • Provide a humidifier for your cat

If your cat is suffering from asthma symptoms, it’s important to take them to the vet for diagnosis and treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent serious complications and improve your cat’s quality of life.

10. Respiratory Illness

The most common respiratory infections in cats that can lead to retching include the common cold, Feline Herpesvirus-1 (FHV-1) and Feline Calicivirus (FCV). Pneumonia and bronchitis can also trigger retching in cats.

If your cat retching and showing other respiratory symptoms such as coughing, sneezing or nasal discharge, it is important to take them to the vet to rule out respiratory disease. The vet can determine the cause of the gagging and recommend the best treatment.

In most cases, respiratory diseases in cats are mild and resolve on their own within a few weeks. However, some respiratory diseases can be more serious. It is therefore important to see a vet if your cat shows respiratory symptoms.

Here are some tips on how to prevent respiratory diseases in your cat:

• Vaccinate your cat against the common feline respiratory viruses.
• Keep your cat indoors away from other cats that may be sick.
• Avoid exposing your cat to smoke, dust and other irritants.
• Make sure your cat always has a clean litter box and fresh water.
• If your cat shows signs of respiratory illness, take it to the vet immediately.

11. Expelling a hairball

Cats are in great need of grooming and therefore ingest a lot of hair. Normally this hair passes through the digestive system without any problems. However, sometimes a cat can develop a hairball, an accumulation of undigested hair that can lead to gagging and vomiting.

If your cat is coughing up hairballs more than once a week, it may be a sign of an underlying illness, such as a skin condition, allergy or inflammatory bowel disease. If you are concerned about your cat’s hairballs, speak to your vet.

There are a few things you can do to prevent hairballs in your cat. Firstly, brush your cat regularly to remove loose hair. This will reduce the amount of hair your cat ingests. Secondly, feed your cat a high-fiber diet. Fiber helps food move through the digestive tract faster. Finally, make sure your cat drinks plenty of fresh water. Water helps to keep the digestive system hydrated and functioning properly.

If your cat has a hairball, there are a few things you can do to get rid of it. First, try giving your cat a teaspoon of Vaseline or olive oil. This can help to moisten the digestive tract and make the hairball easier to remove. You can also try feeding your cat a small amount of canned pumpkin or specialized cat food designed to ease digestion and prevent issues that may cause your cat to gag. Pumpkin is a natural laxative that can help move the hairball through the digestive tract.

If your cat is unable to excrete the hairball itself, you will need to take it to the emergency vet right away. The vet may need to anesthetize your cat and remove the hairball manually.

12. Poisoning

Cats are curious creatures and often explore their surroundings by putting things in their mouths. Unfortunately, this can sometimes lead to them ingesting poisonous substances.

Some of the most common substances that can be toxic to cats are:

• Household cleaners
• Pesticides
• Fertilizers
• Medications
• Plants may be causing your cat to gag if they are nibbling on them, as some are toxic or irritating to cats.
• Food (such as chocolate, grapes and onions)

If you think your cat may have swallowed something poisonous, it is important to take it to the vet immediately. The vet will be able to assess the situation and provide the necessary treatment.

The symptoms of poisoning in cats can vary depending on the substance ingested. However, the most common symptoms include the following:

• Gagging
• Vomiting along with gagging can be concerning and warrants a veterinarian’s attention.
• Diarrhea
• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite
• Difficulty breathing
• Seizures

If you notice your cat any of these symptoms, you must take them to the vet immediately. The sooner your cat is treated, the better its chances of recovery.

The treatment of poisoning in cats depends on the substance that has been ingested. However, the most common treatments include the following:

• Induce vomiting
• Administration of activated charcoal
• Administration of IV fluids
• Administration of medication

If your cat has been poisoned, it is important that you follow the vet’s instructions exactly. This will help your cat to make a full recovery.

13. Cough

If your cat coughs frequently or has difficulty breathing, you should take him to a vet so that he can make a proper diagnosis and treatment.

There are various respiratory diseases that can cause coughing in cats, including:

13.1 Bronchitis

Inflammation of the bronchi, the large airways that carry air in and out of the lungs, leads to coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath.

13.2 Pneumonia

An infection of the lungs, often caused by bacteria or viruses, leads to coughing, fever, shortness of breath and lethargy.

13.3 Feline infectious rhinotracheitis (FVR)

A highly contagious upper respiratory tract infection caused by a virus, commonly known as cat flu, characterized by sneezing, nasal discharge and coughing.

13.4 Feline calicivirus (FCV)

Another common upper respiratory infection in cats is caused by a virus and associated with symptoms such as sneezing, watery eyes, mouth ulcers and coughing.

14. Motion sickness

Motion sickness is a common problem for cats, especially when traveling by car. It occurs when the cat’s inner ear, which controls balance, receives conflicting signals from the eyes and the body. This can lead to nausea, vomiting, drooling and restlessness. Some cats may also meow excessively or try to escape from the car.

There are a few things you can do to prevent motion sickness in your cat. Firstly, you should avoid sudden stops and starts and keep the car as cool and well ventilated as possible. You can also give your cat a light meal before the journey and avoid feeding them during the journey. Some cats may also benefit from taking medication or a calming pheromone spray.

If your cat gets seasick, there are a few things you can do to make her feel better. First, try to stop and let her get some fresh air. You can also give her a small amount of water or Pedialyte to keep her hydrated. If your cat vomits, you should clean up the vomit as soon as possible so she doesn’t inhale it, as prolonged gagging may indicate a deeper issue requiring emergency vet attention right away.

In some cases, motion sickness can be a sign of an underlying condition, such as an inner ear infection or a digestive problem. If your cat frequently suffers from motion sickness, it’s important to take them to the vet to rule out other health problems.

15. Allergies

Allergies are a common cause of gagging in cats. When a cat inhales an allergen such as pollen or dust, the body produces histamine and other chemicals. These chemicals cause the airways to become inflamed and swollen, which can lead to retching.

Food allergies can also trigger retching in cats. The most common food allergens for cats include beef, dairy products and chicken. If you think your cat has a food allergy, talk to your vet about switching to a hypoallergenic food.

In some cases, gagging can also be a sign of a more serious condition, such as asthma or heart disease. If your cat is gagging frequently, it’s important to take them to the vet to rule out other health problems.

Conclusion

If your cat is gagging then it’s important to look out for other symptoms and take them to the vet if the gagging persists or is accompanied by other worrying symptoms.

Gagging in cats can be caused by a variety of factors, including hairballs, foreign bodies, respiratory infections, allergies and more serious medical conditions. Your veterinarian can help you determine the cause and treat your cat accordingly, especially if your cat is constantly gagging or has trouble with hairballs.

In the meantime, you can try to prevent gagging by grooming your cat regularly and keeping their environment free of small objects that they might swallow.