What's going on with a cat's hiccups?

Cat hiccups can be caused by various reasons such as eating too fast, inhaling too much hairballs, getting cold, and digestive system diseases. If a cat eats too fast, hiccups are a normal phenomenon and there is usually no need to worry too much. If the cat has abnormal hiccups and other uncomfortable symptoms such as nausea, loss of appetite, and vomiting, it is recommended that the owner take the cat to a pet hospital promptly for inspection to identify the cause and actively cooperate with the doctor's treatment. Otherwise, it can easily lead to worsening of the condition.

What are the causes of cat hiccups?

Eating too fast

During the eating process, food passes through the esophagus into the stomach. If a cat eats too fast, it can cause the diaphragm to react, resulting in hiccups. This is a normal situation and requires adjusting the eating speed.

Inhaling too much hairballs

If a cat often licks its own fur, it can lead to fallen hair entering the stomach, affecting the normal absorption and digestion of food. The hair cannot be directly absorbed or excreted by the gastrointestinal tract, causing accumulation in the gastrointestinal tract, forming hairballs. Without timely treatment, it may stimulate the gastrointestinal tract, causing hiccups, heartburn, and acid reflux. It is recommended that the owner take the cat to a regular hospital for inspection and further treatment according to the inspection results.

Getting cold

If a cat has symptoms such as sneezing, running nose, and coughing during hiccups, it may be caused by the body's stimulation from cold wind. It is necessary to promptly protect the cat's body, such as adding blankets and cushions, to reduce the uncomfortable reactions caused by getting cold.

Digestive system diseases

Cat hiccups may be caused by underlying digestive system diseases, such as gastritis and enteritis, which can affect the gastrointestinal tract and cause indigestion, resulting in hiccups. It is recommended to give the cat antibiotics and digestive tract-promoting medications.