Gagging in cats

Gagging in cats

By
✔ MRCVS
DVM
Reviewed by Dr. Deborah Brown
✔ MRCVS
BSc
BVM&S
FHEA
Updated October 16, 2025
3 min read

What to do

Causes

When to worry

Prevention

Diagnosis

Home treatment

Vet treatment

Risk

Other causes of gagging

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Gagging in cats

Gagging in cats

By
✔ MRCVS
DVM
Reviewed by Dr. Deborah Brown
✔ MRCVS
BSc
BVM&S
FHEA
Updated October 16, 2025
3 min read

Gagging or retching is quite common in cats. It's often associated with hairballs, so brief episodes aren't usually cause for concern. Gagging that is severe or recurrent needs further investigation.

Gagging is a reflex of your cat’s body. Gag or retch sounds like they are trying to vomit while also coughing. It can be difficult to distinguish between coughing and vomiting. Sometimes they bring up white foam or mucous. If it persists or is accompanied by other signs, contact a vet.

What to do if your cat is gagging? >What to do if your cat is gagging? [What to do

Common causes of gagging in cats >Common causes of gagging in cats [Causes

When you should be worried about your cat gagging >When you should be worried about your cat gagging [When to worry

Tips on how to prevent your cat from gagging >Tips on how to prevent your cat from gagging [Prevention

How do vets diagnose the cause of gagging in cats >How do vets diagnose the cause of gagging in cats [Diagnosis

How to help a cat that is gagging >How to help a cat that is gagging [Home treatment

How your vets may treat gagging in your cat >How your vets may treat gagging in your cat [Vet treatment

Are some cats more at risk of gagging than others? >Are some cats more at risk of gagging than others? [Risk

Other causes of gagging

Gagging with coughing may be a warning of other serious diseases, including:

For more information about coughing in cats click here.

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