My relaxation and sleep time is being interrupted by a constant tickle in my throat and sometimes a raspy cough. I feel I’m going to choke. My humans get very upset and so do I. What should we do? (Sooty, 6 years, black cat, Bodalla)

Dr. Alan

There are a number of causes of coughing in cats, some are potentially life threatening and some are not. Sooty, the most common cause of the clinical picture you paint is “fur balls”. When you wash yourself with your tongue, you swallow fur, most of which passes through your system. Some fur gets trapped in your stomach and over time can pile up into your throat, causing the tickle that makes you cough. Usually, this helps you to bring up the fur ball. It may be helpful to get your owners to give you some Kat Lax or Laxigel. This will assist you to pass the fur. My cat thinks it is delicious – we put it on her paws so she can lick it off! If the cough persists have your owner call the vet as your problem may be more severe.