Laryngitis, or inflammation of the larynx (voice box), can affect your cat’s ability to meow and communicate as they normally do. If your cat suddenly has a raspy voice or seems unable to vocalize, laryngitis could be the culprit.
A number of things can cause laryngitis in cats, ranging from infections to, in rare cases, growths in the throat. If you suspect your cat has laryngitis, it’s important to seek veterinary care for an accurate diagnosis and to explore appropriate laryngitis cats treatment options.
What causes laryngitis in cats?
There are a few potential causes for a cat’s hoarseness or loss of voice, some infectious and some non-infectious.
Infectious diseases
The most common cause of laryngitis in cats is an upper respiratory infection (URI), especially feline calicivirus and rhinotracheitis.
These infections cause inflammation and irritation of the larynx.
Non-infectious causes
Laryngitis can also be triggered by inhaled irritants like smoke or dust.
Sometimes a physical obstruction or foreign body lodged in the throat can be to blame and may require surgical removal.
Other potential causes include hyperthyroidism, growths (either benign or cancerous), eosinophilic granuloma complex, and paralysis of the laryngeal nerve.
What are the symptoms of laryngitis in cats?
The most obvious sign is a change in your cat’s meow. It might sound weak, hoarse, or even disappear altogether.
You might also notice respiratory symptoms like:
- Noisy breathing that sounds like wheezing
- A dry, hacking cough
- Straining to breathe
Other signs to watch out for:
- Bad breath
- Trouble swallowing
- Breathing with their mouth open, or holding their head low
- Cold-like symptoms like a runny nose, watery eyes, and sneezing
Diagnosing laryngitis: What to expect at the vet
If you take your cat to the vet because you think they have laryngitis, the vet will start with a physical exam.
Next, they may order tests:
- X-rays to look for blockages or growths
- Blood tests to rule out conditions like hyperthyroidism
- Endoscopy to get a close look at the larynx
These tests will help the vet figure out what’s causing your cat’s laryngitis.
Treatment Options for Cat Laryngitis
Because laryngitis has so many potential causes, treatment will depend on what your vet finds during the exam and tests.
Infections might require antibiotics or antiviral drugs. If your vet discovers a foreign body, the cat will need surgery to have it removed. Eosinophilic granuloma complex can be treated with corticosteroids or medication for parasites. Hyperthyroidism will require specific treatment, depending on how serious it is.
Supportive care, such as running a humidifier, can also help soothe the irritated larynx. You can gently clean any discharge from your cat’s eyes or nose with a soft, damp cloth. In severe cases, your vet might prescribe pain relievers or diuretics.
In Summary
With prompt diagnosis and treatment of the underlying cause, the prognosis for a cat with laryngitis is generally good.
While your cat recovers, provide a comfortable, quiet, and stress-free environment. Be sure to follow your veterinarian’s instructions and keep an eye out for worsening symptoms.
You can also make it easier for your cat to swallow by temporarily switching to wet food.