There are many strange noises cats make that can make you question what’s going on.
However, let’s focus on one specific noise – the gurgling sound.
Hearing your cat making strange gurgling noises in their throat may not always be serious but, most often, should be a cause for concern.
I will be the first to say that if your cat is making this sound, you definitely should call your vet and let them know, especially if it’s a behavior you are not used to seeing.
I have seen my cat do this before, but not usually for more than a minute. Let’s look at some causes of your cat’s gurgling sounds and how we can help as cat owners.
1. Feline Rhinotracheitis
Feline Rhinotracheitis is a disease caused by the feline herpesvirus type I (HVF-1), and it can lead to unusual sounds in a cat’s larynx.
If your cat starts making gurgling noises, examine their nose for any discharge, as well as keep an eye out for chronic sneezing or coughing.
If these symptoms are present, it’s best to bring your cat to a veterinarian for a thorough examination.
2. Airway Blockage
Airway blockage is not only a human problem but also a potential issue for cats. If your cat’s airway is blocked, it may lead to snoring-like noises or gurgling in their throat.
If your cat has a history of respiratory problems or asthma, it might be more susceptible to this condition.
Try to keep your cat away from anything that can cause airway blockage, and if the gurgling sound persists, seek advice from your veterinarian.
3. Respiratory Infection
Respiratory infections are common in cats, and they can cause mucus buildup in their throats, leading to gurgling sounds as they try to clear their throat.
You might notice other symptoms such as difficulty breathing, coughing, fever, and lack of appetite.
Keep your cat in a warm and quiet place, and make sure they drink plenty of water. It’s important to consult a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.
4. Neurological Abnormality
If your cat has a neurological issue affecting their throat, it could cause a gurgling sound.
This can occur if the nerves controlling the muscles that support the larynx (voice box) are damaged.
This can be caused by a brain or spinal cord injury, toxins, or infections. If your cat has a neurological abnormality, your vet may need to conduct tests to confirm the diagnosis.
5. Upset or Irritated Stomach
If your cat has an upset or irritated stomach, it could cause a gurgling sound.
Cats are prone to experiencing gastrointestinal issues, such as inflammatory bowel disease, which is the result of a poorly functioning immune system.
Other causes of an upset stomach include parasites, infections, and food intolerances.
If your cat is experiencing an upset stomach, you may want to try feeding them a bland diet or switching to a high-quality, low-ingredient cat food.
6. Nasopharyngeal Polyps
Nasopharyngeal polyps are tumors that grow in the back of a cat’s throat.
These tumors are most commonly found in kittens and young cats, and they can cause a variety of respiratory problems, including increased respiratory noise.
If your cat has a nasopharyngeal polyp, your vet may need to remove it surgically.
7. Pleural Effusion
Pleural effusion is an abnormal accumulation of fluid in the chest cavity, which can cause difficulty breathing and gurgling sounds in the throat.
This condition can be caused by heart disease, lung cancer, infections, or trauma.
If your cat has pleural effusion, your vet may need to remove the fluid using a syringe or a needle.
8. Asthma
Affecting between 1% and 5% of cats, Asthma in cats is a common respiratory condition that can cause gurgling sounds in the throat.
Other symptoms of asthma in cats include coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing.
If your cat has asthma, your vet may prescribe medications such as bronchodilators to help open up their airways.
Here is a cat gurgling while they are being petted by their parent. In this video, it appears to me that this cat’s behavior is a result of being overstimulated.
Why does my cat make weird guttural noises?
Guttural noises, which are long, intense, and low-pitched meows, can indicate discomfort or stress in certain situations, such as being at the vet’s office or in an unfamiliar place.
These sounds can also be a sign of physical problems, including pain.
A cat making a weird throat noise might have a blockage in the voice box, nasal passages, or upper part of the windpipe.
If your cat is making a gurgling sound when breathing, this could be due to several conditions, such as an upper respiratory infection, sinus infection, tumor in the nose, nasopharyngeal stenosis (a narrowing of the back of the throat), or a nasopharyngeal polyp.
Some cats also mimic the sounds of birds or rodents to draw them in closer, a behavior often accompanied by chattering.
It’s important to monitor these sounds and consult with a vet if they persist or are accompanied by other symptoms.
Why does my cat’s meow sound like a gargle?
Your cat’s meow may sound like a gargle due to a variety of reasons. It could be due to a physical issue, such as an upper respiratory infection or a throat condition.
It might also be related to the particular breed of your cat; some breeds, like the Maine Coon are known for their unique vocalizations.
Moreover, cats can alter their meows to communicate different needs or emotions to their owners.
However, if you notice any significant changes in your cat’s meow or other signs of discomfort, it’s always a good idea to contact your vet.
They can conduct a thorough examination and provide appropriate treatment if necessary.
Cat making gurgling noises when breathing
A cat making gurgling noises when breathing could be due to several reasons:
- It could be a result of an airway blockage in the throat, similar to the sound of snoring in humans. These strange noises during breathing could indicate a respiratory problem.
- Another potential cause is a condition known as tracheal collapse, where the walls of the trachea (windpipe) become weak. Loud breathing sounds might also occur if air is passing through abnormally narrowed passageways, meeting resistance to airflow.
- In some cases, breathing noises in cats can be normal, but it’s always best to err on the side of safety. There could be a blockage or issue in the larynx or windpipe, causing noisy breathing with a high-pitched sound. Benign nodules can also lead to airway blockages and noisy breathing.
- A grumbling, gurgling sound, known as borborygmus, could be caused by gases pushing their way through the stomach and intestines.
It’s important to consult with a vet if your cat is making unusual noises when breathing to ensure they receive appropriate care.
Cat gurgling sound in the throat when purring
When your cat makes a gurgling sound in their throat while purring, it could be due to several reasons:
- These gurgling sounds can occur when air tries to pass through restricted airways of the larynx.
- The gurgling noise could also be a symptom of an obstruction in your cat’s throat. This obstruction could cause your cat to make abnormal noises when they try to purr.
- Fluid in the lungs can also cause a bubbly or gurgly sound. It’s also possible for viral illnesses or an upper respiratory infection to cause voice changes, including a gurgling sound when your cat purrs.
If I ever heard my cat gurgling while purring, I would reach out to my vet as soon as possible.
I definitely would not sit and wait to see what happens because this is not normal cat behavior.
cat gurgling sound in throat after surgery
Your cat’s gurgling sound in the throat after surgery could be due to several reasons:
- Post-surgery, your cat might exhibit a change in their ‘meow’ sound, or it might sound scratchy. This usually fades away and is not a serious symptom but is rather a result of the trachea being irritated during anesthesia or sedation. A mild post-surgical cough is also common and typically diminishes over the next few days.
- In some cases, the gurgling sound could be due to irritation from having a tube in the cat’s trachea during surgery.
- Pain is also a common reason for abnormal breathing noises after surgery, as pain medications may begin to wear off, causing an increase in respiration.
It’s always important to monitor your cat’s behavior post-surgery. If you notice any changes in eating, drinking, or breathing patterns, it would be best to contact your vet immediately.
Tips for Preventing Gurgling Sounds in Cats
Prevention is always better than cure; the same applies to your cat’s health. Here are a few tips for keeping your furry friend healthy and avoiding respiratory issues:
- Ensure your cat is up-to-date on vaccinations and parasite prevention
- Provide a healthy, balanced diet that meets your cat’s nutritional needs
- Encourage your cat to stay active during the day through playtime and exercise
- Practice regular grooming to remove loose hair and prevent hairball formation
- Keep your home environment clean and free of dust and pollutants
- In some cases, you might need to help clear your cat’s airways. One method is through coupage, which involves gently but firmly stroking your cat’s chest with cupped hands. This action helps loosen secretions trapped in the lower airways, allowing them to be more effectively cleared by coughing.
- To prevent these conditions, monitoring your cat’s breathing and seeking veterinary attention if you notice any abnormalities is crucial. The specific treatment your vet uses will depend on the underlying cause of the noisy breathing.
What should you do if your cat is making a gurgling sound in the throat?
It’s important to note that any change in your cat’s usual behavior or sounds warrants a vet visit.
If your cat is making gurgling sounds, especially if accompanied by other signs of distress or changes in behavior, don’t try to diagnose them yourself; contact your veterinarian and have them examine your cat to rule out any serious health issues.
When to call the vet if your cat is making gurgling sound in their throat?
If you cannot clearly identify the exact reason for your cat’s gagging or gurgling sounds, it’s advisable to take them to the emergency vet immediately.
If your cat displays any signs of respiratory distress or unfamiliar noises while breathing, reach out to your vet as soon as you can.
Don’t sit and wait and try to diagnose things yourself because early examination could reduce the risk of complications and provide better outcomes.
The most important thing is to get your cat examined as soon as possible so that the cause of the gurgling can be identified and treated/monitored.