Cat Gagging — What causes it?
You’re reading your favorite book in your living room as your cat enjoys the sun right beside you. And suddenly, you hear strange sounds coming from his direction that is accompanied by frightening convulsions. While this scenario may seem dangerous and violent at the onset, it is usually benign. This condition is known as cat gagging. Here is what causes cat gagging and steps to take when it occurs.
Cat gagging
Among all household pets, cats have the best survival instincts and their gag reflex often occurs naturally. Cats can quickly eject something they have just ingested, if its something toxic and this gives them an evolutionary advantage. Occasional cat gagging is normal and healthy. Usually it leads to vomiting but on rare occasions.
However, gagging isn’t sneezing or coughing but the sounds may seem quite similar. So, what exactly is cat gagging? Basically, cat gagging is a physical response when something touches the larynx. And it is then followed by neck extension and widening of the mouth. Most often, this entire episode helps in ejecting a foreign object – something that has tickled the cat’s throat.
Gagging can indicate potential danger
Although vomiting and gagging are usually common occurrences, when it happens frequently, it can indicate potential danger. While cats vomit occasionally, you should consult your vet if it has happened several times in a week.
Common causes for cat gagging
Most of the time, hairballs cause cat gagging. These hairballs usually form when cats perform a tongue bath. When licking their body, cats remove debris and dander, as well as their hair. Unfortunately, they often ingest hair that passes through their digestive system undetected. The hair might also get stuck inside the stomach. Cats then inject this hair that may have formed an hairball – and gagging occurs.
Gagging can sometimes occur as a result of ingestion of potential dangerous items like string, bones, tinsel, fishing line, or anything foreign or toxic.
Steps to take during an emergency
If you notice your cat is having difficulty when gaggling, you should first check the airway. Pull the tongue forward to check if there’s anything foreign stuck in the airway. If you spot a foreign object like a string, take your cat to your vet immediately and don’t attempt to pull it out.
Conclusion
Cat gagging is an indicator that something is amiss health wise. If you notice your cat has frequent gagging, then you should consult a vet if the condition persists.
