Sore throat in cats

Sore throat in cats is a sign of inflammation in the pharynx, called pharyngitis. Signs include changes in their meow, gagging or vomiting. Cats can get sore throats for several reasons.

Pharyngitis in cats can be caused by infections, a growth or an injury by a swallowed sharp object. It’s usually not serious when cats have inflammation of their throat, but it can be a sign of other diseases. Cats of any age or breed can develop a sore throat alongside other symptoms.

Overview

What is a sore throat in cats?

Pharyngitis or sore throat, just by itself is not a common condition seen in cats. It is usually accompanied by other symptoms.

The most common problems that can result in a sore throat are:

Bacterial or viral infections of the upper airway tract, such as Bartonella, Mycoplasm and cat flu
Growths, such as nasopharyngeal polyps and tumours
Abscesses and traumatic injury to the throat due to plant material, pins, needles, bone fragments or other objects
Ingestion of irritating or caustic substances

Symptoms

Symptoms of sore throat in cats

Drooling
Difficulty swallowing
Reduced appetite
Vomiting
Gagging
Sneezing
Bad breath
Change in their meow

Risk

Cats at higher risk of developing a sore throat

Young cats, elderly cats, and cats with other illnesses such as FIV can be more prone infections that cause pharyngitis.
Cats living in a high population density, such as cat shelters or multi-cat households, can also be more likely to catch infectious diseases that cause sore throats.
Nasopharyngeal polyps can affect any cat and at any age, but they seem to be more common in younger animals.
Cats with chewing and scavenger behaviour may be more prone to injure their throat as they chew sharp or hard objects.

Diagnosis

How do vets diagnose sore throats in cats?

Your vet will aim to find out if your cat has a sore throat and identying what has caused it. Your vet will:

Talk through your cat’s signs.
Perform an examination with visual inspection of the mouth. Your cat will likely need to be sedated or anaesthetised to allow a thorough exam of their mouth and thorat.

In some cases, your vet may request:

Endoscopic examination of the throat (examination using a camera scope)
Radiographs (x-rays)
Advanced imaging, such as a CT scan or MRI may be necessary.
FNA or biopsy of lumps found.
Blood and urine tests to rule out any systemic problems.

Vet treatment

How do vets treat sore throats in cats?

Treatment for pharyngitis will depend on the exact cause.

Your vet may prescribe one or more of the following depending on your cat’s needs:

Anti-inflammatory and pain relief.
Antibiotics in cases related to infections.
Surgery in cases of foreign objects and growths, as necessary.
Chemotherapy and radiotherapy in cases of tumours.

Home treatment

How to help your cat with a sore throat?

Follow your vets recommendations and treatment. In addition:

Monitor your cat closely to identify any relevant changes in their condition.
Consider giving them soft or wet food.
Offer a teaspoon of honey. It can help with appetite and alleviate the symptoms.
Try to keep them indoors, rested and quiet.

Prevention

How to prevent a sore throat in cats?

If your cat is a chewer, you should monitor them closely and avoid any sharp objects.
Keep your cat up to date with their vaccinations and deworming.
Take your cat to your vets for yearly checkups.
Keep up with teeth brushing and professional dental cleaning, to help prevent mouth problems.
Try providing a stress-free environment.

When to worry