Bringing a cat into your home comes with the expectation of certain quintessential feline behaviors, notably, plenty of peaceful napping. So, when your new furry friend settles down for a snooze, you might be taken aback – perhaps even amused – by surprisingly loud snores emanating from their tiny nose.
While snoring is a common occurrence in dogs, it’s less frequently observed in cats, which can lead cat owners to worry if there’s something amiss with their beloved pet. Although snoring can sometimes signal an underlying health issue, it’s important to know that a snoring cat isn’t always a cause for immediate alarm.
If you’re pondering whether your cat’s nighttime noises warrant a visit to the veterinarian, this guide will walk you through the common reasons behind cat snoring and help you understand when it might be a sign of a problem.
Common Causes of Snoring in Cats
Cats snore for a variety of reasons, ranging from their breed and sleeping positions to underlying health conditions. Here are some of the most typical culprits:
Anatomical Predisposition
Certain cat breeds, particularly those with flat faces like Persians, are significantly more prone to snoring due to their unique facial structure.
These breeds, known as brachycephalic cats, possess shortened facial bones and noses, which, according to Dr. Bruce Kornreich, associate director of the Cornell Feline Health Center and cardiologist at the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine’s Department of Clinical Sciences, makes them more susceptible to snoring. Dr. Kornreich explains, “They also may have smaller nostrils that restrict breathing.”
Beyond their flat faces and narrow nostrils, brachycephalic cats might have other anatomical features contributing to snoring. An elongated soft palate, for instance, can partially obstruct the entrance to the windpipe. This obstruction can make it harder for air to flow freely, resulting in unusual breathing sounds, including snoring.
Sleeping Postures
Just like humans, a cat’s sleeping position can play a role in snoring. If your cat suddenly starts snoring after shifting positions, it could simply be that their head and neck are angled in a way that temporarily restricts airflow, leading to those snorting sounds.
Underlying Medical Issues
Snoring can sometimes be a symptom of existing medical conditions. Dr. Andrea Jones, a veterinarian at Princeton Animal Hospital & Carnegie Cat Clinic in New Jersey, points out that cats with upper respiratory infections or chronic nasal inflammation, also known as rhinitis, are more likely to snore.
Blockages within the nasal passages, such as polyps or tumors, can also cause snoring. Even a foreign object lodged in the nasal cavity, like a stray blade of grass, can obstruct airflow and lead to snoring.
Overweight cats are also more prone to snoring. Excess fat accumulation can occur in the tissues surrounding the upper airway, including the back of the throat and neck, narrowing the airway and increasing the likelihood of snoring.
When to Consult a Veterinarian for Your Snoring Cat
If your cat has always been a snorer, it’s likely just a normal quirk. However, if snoring starts abruptly or is accompanied by other behavioral or physical changes, it’s wise to seek veterinary advice.
Besides the sudden onset of snoring, be vigilant for signs of breathing difficulties while your cat is awake. These signs include:
- Panting
- Wheezing
- Heavy breathing
- Open-mouth breathing
Dr. Kornreich advises cat owners to watch for symptoms such as nasal discharge and coughing, which could indicate a more serious underlying issue. Even subtle changes, like a change in your cat’s meow, can be significant. “Cats don’t tend to show signs of illness until they’re very sick, so you really need to be vigilant,” he emphasizes.
Dr. Jones adds that owners of snoring cats should also check for any facial swelling. “This could indicate a tooth root abscess, which can be very painful and needs medical intervention,” she explains.
Managing and Treating Cat Snoring
Treatment for snoring in cats depends on the underlying cause. If polyps, tumors, or foreign objects are identified as the problem, your veterinarian can surgically remove them.
Weight loss can significantly reduce or eliminate snoring in overweight cats. Dr. Jones recommends ensuring your cat is not overeating and gets sufficient exercise to maintain a healthy weight.
Non-medical solutions can also be helpful. Consider using a humidifier in the rooms where your cat spends most of their time resting. Dry air can irritate the respiratory system in cats, just as it does in humans. Adding moisture to the air may help soothe the airways and reduce snoring.
Ultimately, if your cat is generally happy, playful, has a good appetite, and the snoring is not a new development, there’s likely no cause for concern. It might just be another endearing quirk that makes your feline companion unique.
By Kate Hughes
