It is no secret that felines are notorious sleepers, which means it is also unsurprising to hear a cat snoring. In fact, they can sleep in an average span of fifteen to twenty hours every day. Cat owners may already be familiar with the sounds of their cats’ gentle snores whilst cuddled on the couch. There are some that frequently snore, whilst others do not. However, cats do not always snore every time they are asleep. That being said, if you have never heard your cat snoring, she may already have but not by your side. The real question is, is a cat’s snore normal? Or is it a problem?
How do cats snore?
Is your cat snoring or purring? Can cats snore whilst awake? In technical terms, snoring refers to the audible breathing sound created whilst asleep.
Yes, a cat snores when relaxed. Similar to humans, cats are likely to be in a deep stage of sleep wherein their body is at its prime relaxed state. At this, it causes the airways to narrow with vibrating soft tissues. The said vibration occurring in between the throat and nose stirs an audible breathing or snoring.
However, there are more complicated issues as well, although not emergency cases that warrant immediate medical attention. We at UK Pets have gathered different possible reasons why you have a snoring furry companion.
She may be sleeping in an odd position.
Many cats sleep in odd positions. It may be cosy for them, but these positions may block their airways, which could lead to snoring.
Your feline may be obese.
Photo Credit: Huffpost
Snoring can be a sign of health complications. This is especially true for overweight cats, as obesity is one of the most common health issues in domestic pets.
Similar to humans, obese cats are likely to snore due to the accumulated fats surrounding the airways. That being said, they may also have trouble breathing even when fully awake.
Is she one of the brachycephalic cat breeds?
Scientific studies have reached conclusions that brachycephalic breeds or the flat-faced felines are likely to suffer from breathing problems. This is due to the fact that they have shortened nasal passages and elongated soft palates. For this reason, pet organisations have worked on regulations regarding the intentional breeding of cats with extremely specific traits. Brachycephalic breeds include Persians, exotic shorthairs, Himalayans, British shorthairs, and Scottish folds.
Snoring can be a sign of respiratory problems.
Snoring may also mean that your beloved feline is suffering from asthma or from upper respiratory tract infection. Fortunately, viral and bacterial infections can be treated with certain medications and antibiotics prescribed by your vet.
Firstly, feline asthma also manifests as swelling tissues in the lung passage of the cat. As for the upper respiratory infection, this is due to mucous build-up or sinus congestion located in the airways.
Furthermore, the presence of foreign objects can also lead to respiratory tract problems. As inquisitive creatures, cats are likely to engage in unexpected things, including eating inedible material. The intake of foreign material can add pressure on the nasal passages. This results in coughing, snoring, and wheezing.
It can be rooted from a manifestation of polyps.
A manifestation of a polyp or growing tumours located in the nasal passages or throat can also lead to noises in breathing. Any growing polyps, cancers, and tumours will obstruct airflow in the nasal passages.
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Should I worry?
It is important to assess the issue on all sides. The problem may be minor or something worse.
When is ‘cat snoring’ a natural action?
- She occasionally snores only when asleep.
- There should be no signs of struggle whilst breathing and snoring.
- The audible sounds should be light.
- The flow of the snore is consistent; it does not ebb and flow.
- When there are no other manifesting signs.
When do you need to worry about ‘cat snoring’?
- When the audible sounds are persistent even when awake.
- The sound produced is loud and heavy.
- The flow of the snore is inconsistent; getting louder and at times quieter as well as having difficulty in breathing.
- Aside from snoring, she also sneezes and coughs at times.
- Snoring is accompanied by other manifesting signs of illnesses.
