Why Is My Cat Wheezing? Causes, Symptoms, and When to Call the Vet
Understanding Causes, Symptoms, and When to Call the Vet
Wheezing in cats isn’t something to ignore. It can range from a brief reaction to a mild irritant, to a sign of something more serious affecting your cat’s respiratory or cardiovascular health. While some causes are minor and pass quickly, others require veterinary attention.
This guide outlines the most common causes of wheezing in cats, how to distinguish between mild and more serious cases, and what to do if your cat begins to wheeze—especially when you’re unsure whether to wait or call the vet.
What Does Wheezing in Cats Sound Like?
Wheezing typically presents as a high-pitched, whistling, or huffing sound when your cat breathes. You may notice your cat stretching its neck or assuming a hunched posture to breathe more easily. Unlike coughing or sneezing, wheezing often comes from deep in the chest and can sound like labored or rattling breaths.
What Causes Wheezing in Cats?
There are several possible causes of wheezing in cats. Here’s a breakdown of common culprits:
Mild Causes
These are usually temporary and often resolve on their own, though they may still require monitoring.
Hairballs – Can cause wheezing or gagging as the cat tries to expel it.
Allergies – Pollen, dust, mold, or smoke may irritate the airways.
Environmental Irritants – Cleaning products, candles, perfumes, or litter dust.
Moderate Causes
These may require a vet visit for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Feline Asthma – A chronic condition causing airway inflammation and narrowing.
Upper Respiratory Infections – Often accompanied by coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, or watery eyes.
Stress-Induced Wheezing – Triggered by anxiety, loud noises, or environmental changes.
Severe or Emergency Causes
These conditions require urgent veterinary attention.
Airway Blockage – A foreign object lodged in the throat or nasal passage.
Heartworms or Lungworms – Parasitic infections affecting the lungs.
Heart Disease – Fluid buildup in the lungs can lead to wheezing and labored breathing.
Tumors or Cancer – Growths in the lungs, airway, or chest cavity.
Severe Asthma Attack – When breathing becomes rapid or visibly strained.
What Symptoms Often Accompany Wheezing?
Wheezing rarely appears in isolation. Watch for these accompanying signs:
Open-mouth breathing
Coughing or retching
Sneezing or nasal discharge
Loss of appetite
Lethargy or hiding
Blue or pale gums
When to Call the Vet
If you’re unsure, it’s always safest to call. But here are some general guidelines:
Urgent
Wheezing lasts more than a few minutes
Mild wheezing occurs rarely but repeatedly
Wheezing worsens suddenly
Accompanied by coughing or nasal discharge
You suspect allergies
Emergent (Seek Immediate Care)
Your cat is struggling to breathe (Extended neck, increased abdominal effort)
Gums are blue or purple
There’s persistent rapid or open-mouth breathing
Suspected airway blockage or foreign object
What a Veterinarian May Do
Your veterinarian will typically begin with a physical exam and may recommend diagnostic tests such as:
X-rays or ultrasound
Bloodwork
Oxygen saturation monitoring
Depending on the cause, treatment might include:
Medications: Corticosteroids, bronchodilators, or antihistamines
Inhalers: For asthma or chronic inflammation
Antibiotics: For bacterial infections
Oxygen therapy: If breathing is severely compromised
What to Do While You Wait for Care
If your cat is stable but needs to see a vet:
Keep them in a calm, quiet space
Avoid exposure to irritants (smoke, perfumes, scented litter)
Monitor their breathing and behavior closely
Note the time and pattern of symptoms for your vet and take videos of the abnormal breathing if possible
If your regular vet is closed, and your cat’s breathing seems labored or they’re showing signs of distress, don’t wait—contact an emergency clinic.
Wheezing is not a normal sound in cats. Even if it appears mild, it’s worth investigating—especially if it continues or is accompanied by other symptoms. Cats are experts at masking discomfort, so early action is key to keeping them safe and comfortable.
If your cat is wheezing and you’re unsure about the cause or severity, reach out to your veterinarian for guidance.
Worried About Your Cat? We Can Help!
At Furgent Care, we offer after-hours veterinary care for non-life-threatening emergencies. This includes digestive issues, minor injuries, skin problems, and more.
Located in Virginia Beach | Open Weekdays 2 PM – 10 PM (closed Tuesdays) | Weekends 10 AM – 10 PM
You don't need an appointment—join our online waitlist and bring your cat or dog to our veterinary urgent care today. Our team is here to help guide you through your emergency and provide peace of mind.
If you have any specific questions call us at 757-656-5650 and one of our techs will be happy to help you.