Accepted Answer

Hello,

It's so kind of you to care for this stray cat!

Coughing in cats can be caused by various factors. Since she lives outside, she might have caught an upper respiratory infection, cat flu, pneumonia, or another communicable illness from other strays, especially if she's not vaccinated.

Coughing can also be a cardiac symptom, and cats of this age are prone to cardiomyopathy, so it would be a good idea to have her evaluated by a vet, as soon as possible, for a definite diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

http://www.2ndchance.info/cough.htm
http://www.sniksnak.com/cathealth/hyp-cardio.html

If she spends any time inside, for the moment, I'd recommend running a humidifier in the room she's in the most, but if she lives outside, only, this won't be possible.

I'd be concerned about the possibility of a contagious situation with her young kittens, if her cough is caused by a viral or bacterial infection, so please try to have a vet assess her condition as soon as you can.

I hope all will be well with your kitty.

Cher

Expert:	Jessesmom
Pos. Feedback:	99.7 %
Accepts:
Answered:	10/16/2009

Feline Specialist Health/Behavior

Feline Healthcare and Behavior Specialist 40+ years Experience