The difference between sneezing and coughing in cats

Cats, like humans, can have problems with sneezing and coughing. Coughing and sneezing are not diseases in themselves, but it needs to be investigated whether underlying diseases are causing the cat to cough or sneeze. Which diseases these are differs depending on whether the cat is sneezing or coughing, so it is good to be able to see and hear the difference between sneezing and coughing in cats.

The difference between sneezing and coughing is actually exactly the same as for us humans, a sneeze involves the upper respiratory tract and the cough comes more from the chest. When a cat sneezes, they often shake their head in conjunction with the sneeze. When coughing, cats often reach their heads out in conjunction with the coughs.

To determine whether your cat is coughing or sneezing, it can sometimes help to do the same yourself to determine which your cat's behaviour is most similar to.

Occasional sneezing can be normal and is usually not dangerous, but if your cat has recurring problems, it is a good idea to consult a veterinarian to see if there is an underlying disease that is causing the cat's sneezing or coughing.