Why Is Your Cat Gurgling? A Vet Explains!

A cat‘s gurgling sound in the throat often indicates underlying health issues, ranging from respiratory infections and allergies to digestive troubles. This peculiar noise may suggest that your cat is experiencing discomfort or an obstruction in its throat.

It is crucial to watch for additional symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, or changes in eating habits. If these gurgling sounds persist or are accompanied by other signs of illness, it is essential to consult with a veterinarian promptly to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.

What is Cat Gurgling Sound in Throat

When a cat’s breathing becomes loud enough to hear without a stethoscope, that’s a red flag worth noticing. Most often, these sounds come from the upper airway, meaning the nose, throat, or trachea, not the lungs. This type of noisy breathing isn’t normal for cats and usually indicates a blockage or irritation.

Some breeds, such as Persians, Himalayans, or Exotic Shorthairs, may naturally breathe louder due to their narrow nasal passages. While this might be expected, it’s still smart to bring it up during your next vet visit. Even in these brachycephalic cats, breathing issues can sometimes require treatment.

Sounds like stertor or stridor can point to different types of upper respiratory problems. Whether it’s an emergency or not often depends on how fast the noise appeared, where it’s coming from, and whether your cat is showing other signs like lethargy, open-mouth breathing, or distress.

What Is Stertor in Cats?

Stertor sounds like snoring or soft snorting and usually comes from the nose or back of the throat. It’s a deeper, low-pitched noise caused by soft tissues vibrating as air moves through narrow or obstructed upper airways. This is often seen in brachycephalic cats like Persians or British Shorthairs due to their naturally compressed facial structure.

Most of the time, stuttering isn’t a medical emergency, but that doesn’t mean it should be ignored. If your cat seems active, is eating well, and shows no signs of distress, a routine vet visit can help rule out any hidden issues. But if that noisy breathing comes with signs like low energy or skipping meals, it’s time to head to the emergency vet without delay.

What Is Stridor in Cats?

Stridor carries a sharper, high-pitched tone that often whistles with each breath, hinting at a problem in the voice box or windpipe. These areas have firmer structures, and when they tighten or swell, air struggles to pass through, creating that distinct sound as your cat inhales or exhales.

Since these narrow passages play a key role in getting oxygen to the lungs, stridor isn’t something to wait on. Cats showing signs of this kind of breathing issue need to be seen by an emergency vet right away, especially if their energy drops or they start breathing through their mouth.

Why My Cat Makes a Gurgling Sound When Purring! What the Vet Told Me

I recently noticed something strange with my adult cat. Every time I pet him, which is often, since he’s incredibly affectionate, he starts to purr like usual, but now there’s a gurgling sound that comes with a noticeable hard swallow. At first, I thought it was just one of those quirky cat things, but it kept happening. On top of that, I’ve started hearing him snore while he’s sleeping.

Naturally, I started to worry a bit — was this just normal, or a sign of something more serious?

So I reached out to my vet.

What the Vet Said

According to my vet, this definitely isn’t something to ignore. While it could be something minor like a sinus or respiratory infection, it could also be caused by polyps in his nose, throat, or ears. Even weight can play a role; if your cat is a bit on the heavier side, that extra tissue might contribute to snoring and gurgling when breathing or purring.

What I’m Doing Now (Per Vet’s Advice)

While we’re planning to take him in for a full check-up (which my vet strongly recommended), she also gave me some home care tips to help him breathe a bit easier in the meantime:

• Use a vaporizer in the room where he sleeps the most.
• Let him breathe in steam from the bathroom by placing him in there while the hot shower runs (for about 15–20 minutes at a time).

These methods can help loosen up any mucus or congestion in his head and chest.

Deciphering the Gurgling Sound in Cats

Common Causes of Gurgling Sounds

Gurgling sounds in cats can arise from several sources, including respiratory tract infections, gastrointestinal problems, or even foreign objects lodged in the throat. It’s crucial to observe the circumstances under which the gurgling occurs to identify its cause accurately.

Differentiating Between Normal and Concerning Sounds

Not all gurgles are alarming. Some might occur during relaxed breathing or after drinking water. However, persistent or accompanied by other symptoms, gurgling should prompt a more in-depth investigation as it could indicate underlying health issues.

Also read: Can a dog get a cat pregnant

Health Implications of Throat Gurgling in Cats

Respiratory Conditions and Symptoms

Respiratory issues, such as bronchitis or asthma, can manifest through gurgling sounds, especially if accompanied by coughing, wheezing, or labored breathing. These symptoms should not be ignored as they require immediate veterinary attention.

Gastrointestinal Issues Leading to Gurgles

Gurgling could also be a sign of gastrointestinal disturbances like acid reflux, indigestion, or even more severe conditions like blockages or inflammatory diseases. Observing any changes in appetite, vomiting, or defecation can help pinpoint the issue.

Dental Disease

Advanced periodontal disease can trigger inflammation in the larynx and nasal cavities, increasing respiratory risks and sinus complications, linking gum infection, oral-systemic health, sinus inflammation, throat irritation, and advanced dental issues.

Neoplasia (Cancer)

There are multiple types of cancer, including squamous cell carcinoma, that can target the respiratory tract, leading to narrowed airways, obstructed airflow, noisy breathing, and severe lung complications associated with respiratory cancer.

Nasopharyngeal polyps

In veterinary medicine, benign growths in the inner ear or eustachian tubes—particularly in younger cats—can result in eustachian tube obstruction, inner ear blockage, and obstructed airflow, frequently presenting with nasal discharge, coughing, and other feline respiratory issues.

Abnormal Anatomy

In feline neonatology, kittens may be born with congenital abnormalities such as cleft palates that impact the airways. More frequently, brachycephalic (flat-faced) cats present with narrowed airways and elongated soft palates, often resulting in noisy breathing and chronic respiratory challenges.

When Gurgling Indicates Emergency Situations

Immediate veterinary attention is required if gurgling is accompanied by blue-tinged gums, extreme lethargy, unresponsiveness, or severe breathing difficulties. These could be signs of life-threatening conditions.

Also read: Why do dogs like to be pet

Is Noisy Breathing in Cats Common?

Noisy breathing in cats, often resembling a snoring sound, is not typical and usually indicates an underlying feline illness. A prompt veterinary evaluation is crucial to assess abnormal cat breathing and to develop a comprehensive diagnostic plan and treatment options.

Diagnostic Approaches for Gurgling Sounds

Veterinary Examination Techniques

A thorough veterinary examination can help diagnose the cause of throat gurgling. This may include listening to the cat’s lungs, examining the throat, and assessing overall physical health to identify potential issues.

Advanced Diagnostic Tools

In some cases, more sophisticated diagnostic tools like X-rays, ultrasounds, or endoscopy might be necessary to get a clear picture of the cat’s internal health and pinpoint the exact cause of the gurgling.

Treatment Options for Cats with Gurgling Sounds

Medical Interventions for Respiratory Issues

If respiratory problems are the culprit, treatment might include antibiotics, steroids, or inhalers to reduce inflammation and clear any infections. It’s essential to follow the veterinary guidance closely to ensure the best outcome.

Dietary Adjustments for Gastrointestinal Health

For gurgles caused by gastrointestinal issues, dietary changes may be recommended. This could include feeding easily digestible foods, implementing a fiber-rich diet, or providing probiotics to restore gut health.

Home Care and Remedies

Alongside medical treatment, providing a calm and comfortable environment for your cat can aid recovery. Ensure they have a quiet place to rest, stay hydrated, and follow any dietary guidelines provided by the vet.

Also read: German Shepherd Husky Mix

Preventative Measures and Overall Well-being

Regular Health Check-ups and Vaccinations

Preventative care, including regular check-ups and keeping up to date with vaccinations, is vital in maintaining your cat’s health and preventing issues that could cause gurgling sounds.

Nutritional Management and Hydration

A balanced diet and constant access to clean water can significantly impact your cat’s health, reducing the risk of gastrointestinal and respiratory issues.

Stress Reduction and Environmental Enrichment

Cats are sensitive to stress, which can exacerbate health problems. Creating a supportive environment with plenty of stimulation can help keep your cat both physically and mentally healthy.

Conclusion: Monitoring and Understanding Your Cat’s Health

Understanding and responding to your cat’s vocalizations, including gurgling sounds, is crucial for their well-being. Regular observation and prompt action can prevent minor issues from becoming severe. Ultimately, a proactive approach to your cat’s health, encompassing regular veterinary visits, proper nutrition, and a supportive environment, can help ensure a long, happy, and healthy life. Listening to and understanding the unique sounds they make, including the less common gurgling, is a vital part of this process.

FAQs

Why does my cat make a weird sound in his throat?

The phenomenon known as “reverse sneezing” occurs due to a spasm in the throat, which causes a constriction of the glottis. This restriction leads to disrupted airflow, resulting in a pronounced snorting sound.

Why is my cat making weird gurgling noises?

Gastric sounds, medically termed borborygmi, are a normal part of the digestive process and typically pose no harm. Variations in a cat’s gut flora can influence both the intensity and the frequency of these sounds. Alterations in gastrointestinal acoustics, whether increased or decreased, can be associated with a range of conditions.

What does it mean when a cat makes a guttural sound?

Under distressing circumstances, such as unexpected grooming sessions, unfamiliar environments, or while in the waiting area of a veterinary clinic, cats may produce prolonged, deep-toned meows. These vocalizations are marked by their intensity and low pitch, signaling the cat’s discomfort.

Why does my cat make a weird noise?

Growling, hissing, or spitting are behaviors exhibited by a cat that is irritated, scared, upset, or showing aggression. It is best to avoid disturbing a cat displaying these signs.

Conversely, a yowl or howl, which resembles a loud, extended meow, indicates that your cat may be experiencing discomfort – they could be trapped, searching for you, or suffering. If your cat is emitting such sounds, it is advisable to locate and assist them promptly.

What does respiratory distress sound like in cats?

Clinical symptoms vary between dogs and cats. For cats, these symptoms include: a respiratory rate exceeding 40 breaths per minute, a hunched posture while in a sternal position, seeking isolation, coughing that may resemble the act of expelling a hairball, and breathing with an open mouth.

Note that open mouth breathing is generally considered abnormal unless the cat is under stress, such as during car travel.

Cat gurgling sound in its throat when purring

A gurgling sound in a cat’s throat while purring may indicate a respiratory issue or an obstruction in the airway. It is essential to monitor the cat for any additional signs of distress and consult a veterinarian for a thorough examination and appropriate treatment.

Cat gurgling sound breathing

A gurgling sound during a cat’s breathing can signify underlying health concerns, such as respiratory infections or fluid accumulation. It is crucial to observe any accompanying symptoms and seek veterinary care promptly to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.

Cat making weird noise like something is stuck in throat

When a cat produces unusual noises suggesting an obstruction in the throat, immediate attention is required. Observing additional symptoms and promptly consulting with a veterinarian can ensure the cat receives the necessary care and assessment.

Cat gurgling sound in throat after surgery

If a cat exhibits gurgling sounds in the throat after undergoing surgery, it is crucial to monitor the situation closely for any signs of complications. Consulting with a veterinarian is advisable to ensure the sound is not indicative of an adverse reaction or infection post-surgery.