Just got the cat back from kennel. At first I thought she wanted to throw up…but it’s a hacking cough. Is there a kennel cough? Is there a proper name for it?
More importantly, what’s the advice? Does it go away or does it need to be treated?
Kennel Cough is Tracheobronchitis and yes, it should be treated. Cats can get respiratory infections of other types as well. One concern with this type of infection is that if the cat’s nose and sinuses get stuffed up, the cat may not be able to smell its food and will therefore stop eating. My vet told me that cats have been known to starve to death if left untreated so get your kitty to the vet and make sure she/he is still eating and drinking water.
Infectious tracheobronchitis (AKA Kennel Cough) is a name given to a constellation of different infectious airway situations. It is far more common in dogs. * Bordatella bronchisepticum* is one bacterial organism often responsible.
Cats are more likely to have viral upper airway disease. They are also more likely to wind up with pneumonia. Cardiac disease in cats can also cause a cough like you describe, and it is not uncommon to see onset of heart disease signs associated with stress (like kenneling).
I would have the cat examined and begin whatever therapy is needed. In the meantime, encourage fluid intake and humidify the cat’s air (take it in the bathroom when you shower/etc). Also keep crust of the external nares.