Introduction
The most common symptom of bronchitis in cats is coughing. In cases of severe bronchitis, a cat may experience problems breathing.
Symptoms of Bronchitis in Cats
Cats do not normally cough, and so when they do there is a reason. What is causing the cough may also affect the type of symptoms that a cat with bronchitis is experiencing. The cough associated with bronchitis is normally a dry hacking cough, and in some cases the cough can me mistaken at first for a hairball cough. The cough may sometimes sound like wheeze, and in severe cases of bronchitis the cough can develop a ‘wet’ congestive sound.
Cats tend to have a specific stance when they are experiencing bronchial coughs. They tend to hunch down into a squatting position, and while they are coughing their neck extends out. Some pet owners may hear a wheezing noise while their cat coughs, and cats usually cough on their exhaled breath. Extreme bronchial coughing episodes may also be associated with vomiting and sneezing.
Bronchitis associated with feline asthma
Bronchitis that is associated with feline asthma will normally cause a periodic cough that comes and goes. Depending on the severity of the asthma the cough may be mild, or it can become quite severe.
Viral or bacterial bronchitis
Feline bronchitis that is associated with a virus or bacterial cause will often have additional upper respiratory symptoms as well. These symptoms can include sneezing, runny nose, lack of appetite, fever, and discharge in and around the eyes. Bronchitis caused by feline parasites may be associated with symptoms such as weight loss and lethargy.