Did the cat lose its voice? These tips should help.
Cats are vocal creatures, and the loss of their meow can be a worrisome sign. Laryngitis, or inflammation of the larynx, is one of the main causes of cats losing their voices and can have a variety of underlying causes.
While laryngitis caused by a viral illness may resolve on its own within a few days in some cases, the underlying cause can be serious and require veterinary attention.
If your cat has lost her voice, there are several forms of care that can help her while she recovers.
What is laryngitis in cats?
Laryngitis in cats is an inflammation of the larynx, also known as the larynx, which can be caused by a variety of different conditions.
Signs and symptoms of feline laryngitis
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a change in vocalization |
dry, hacking cough |
noisy breathing |
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a lowered head while standing |
an open mouth |
difficulty to swallow |
|
sharp breathing |
increased effort to breathe |
bad breath |
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crying eyes |
discharge from the eyes |
runny nose |
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sneeze |
a loss of appetite |
a lack of energy |
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hyperexcitability |
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Possible causes of laryngitis in cats
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infections |
diseases |
inhaled irritants |
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obstruction in the larynx |
an object lodged in the throat |
laryngeal nerve palsy |
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hyperthyroidism |
growth in the throat |
an eosinophilic granuloma complex |
|
throat cancer |
— |
— |
How to help your cat if it loses its voice
When cats lose their meows, it can be a worrying situation for cat owners. Assuming the source of the condition is not serious, your cat will soon regain her voice in a matter of days. Here are five loving ways a cat owner can help their pet get back on its feet.
1. Run a humidifier at home
Running a humidifier at home helps keep the environment more comfortable and can help with the recovery process. Because laryngitis is an inflammation of the larynx, it can cause hoarseness and loss of voice.
A humidifier can add moisture to the air, which will help soothe your cat’s swollen vocal cords. There are two main types of humidifier: cool mist and warm mist, both of which are equally effective.
2. Wipe eye or nose discharge from your cat’s face
Cleaning a cat’s eye or runny nose should be done gently with a damp cloth. It is recommended to use a warm, not cold, damp washcloth to remove discharge, as this can help soothe the cat’s sensitive eyes and nose. The area should be cleaned at least twice a day to keep it fresh and comfortable.
There are loving ways to help a cat that has lost its voice
3. Boost your cat’s immune system
Boosting a cat’s immune system through diet and supplements can be a very beneficial way to help the cat’s body fight infection and recover faster.
A diet rich in antioxidants, fatty acids, proteins and amino acids is essential to keep your cat healthy. Added quality supplements such as probiotics, digestive enzymes, and antioxidants can also help strengthen your immune system.
However, it is pertinent to note that cats can be sensitive to sudden changes in their diet. Therefore, it is prudent to move them slowly from one food to another. You should also consult your vet first for advice on which supplements to choose.
4. Offer pain relief
Since cats naturally try to hide or mask their pain symptoms, it is helpful to be able to recognize when they are in pain and relieve it accordingly.
Giving a cat over-the-counter pain relievers is never recommended, as cats are very sensitive to NSAIDs and are at risk of dangerous side effects from these medications.
Omega-3 fatty acids and glucosamine can be used instead of or in addition to conventional pain relievers to treat pain and inflammation in cats. Other effective cat pain treatments include heat/ice, laser therapy, chiropractic, physical therapy, massage, and acupuncture.
It is always advisable to consult your vet about which type of pain reliever is most appropriate for your cat.
5. Watch your cat closely
It is essential to closely observe your cat for other symptoms if he has lost his voice. Although laryngitis in cats is most often caused by an underlying condition, such as an upper respiratory infection, calicivirus, or rhinotracheitis, other more serious conditions could be causing the loss of vocalizations.
Part of being a responsible pet owner is recognizing these changes in behavior and taking appropriate action. If you think your cat has lost her voice due to illness, it is advisable to take her to the vet for a full examination.
A cat that loses its voice should be thoroughly examined by a veterinarian.
Knowing when to take your cat to the vet
If your cat has lost her voice and home remedies don’t help after a day or two, it’s time to take her to the vet for a full exam. This is especially relevant if your cat is distressed or in pain, or is displaying symptoms of laryngitis.
The vet may perform tests such as blood and urine tests to rule out systemic problems. Additionally, he or she may prescribe a mild pain reliever or other medications to help your cat feel better.
After receiving treatment, most cats will regain their voice within 1-2 weeks. However, the symptoms may persist longer if the underlying cause is not treated.
final thoughts
A cat losing its voice can be a worrisome sign, and it is imperative to identify the underlying cause in order to provide appropriate care. Causes of laryngitis in cats can range from inhaled infections and irritants to illness and throat cancer.
While mild cases of laryngitis may resolve on their own within a few days, there are several ways to help a cat with voice loss. From using a humidifier at home to gently wiping any discharge from the cat’s face, these care measures can help your feline friend recover. If you are ever in doubt about your cat’s health, be sure to contact your vet for advice.
Sources and further reading
This article is accurate and true to the best knowledge and belief of the author. It is not intended to replace the formal and individualized diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, prescription or advice of a veterinary medical professional. Animals showing signs and symptoms of distress should be seen by a veterinarian immediately.
© 2023 Luisa Fiolek