What is the problem with cats snoring while sleeping?

Cat snoring while sleeping may be due to natural facial structure, deep sleep state, incorrect sleeping position, and obesity. However, if the cat usually doesn't snore while sleeping but suddenly starts to do so, it may be due to respiratory diseases. This usually accompanied by other clinical symptoms, such as loss of appetite, lethargy, sneezing, and runny nose. It's necessary to take the cat to the pet hospital promptly to eliminate the cause.

Natural facial structure

If the cat has a short nose, snoring while sleeping is a normal phenomenon, and owners don't need to worry too much. For example, cats with short-nosed breeds such as Garfield and Persians, due to the short nose, the internal structure of the nasal cavity and upper respiratory tract curves, causing breathing difficulties and snoring during sleep.

Deep sleep state

Some cats will not only snore but also occasionally twitch their paws or whole body when they are asleep. This is also a normal phenomenon.

Incorrect sleeping position

Cats are sensitive to their surroundings. If they feel particularly secure and comfortable in their environment, they will adopt various sleeping positions. When the body and neck are twisted at a large angle, it can lead to breathing difficulties, thereby causing snoring. This usually stops when the cat adjusts its sleeping position.

Obesity

Obesity is also a significant reason for cat snoring. Excess fat promotes thickening of the pharyngeal wall, narrowing of the throat and trachea, and enlargement of the soft palate, which is detrimental to the cat's health. The effect of breathing may not be significant when the cat is awake, but when it sleeps, the throat muscles relax, the trachea is compressed by fat, and even the tongue retracts, causing respiratory obstruction and difficulty breathing. As a result, snoring sounds occur. Therefore, if the cat is overweight, it is necessary for the owner to help the cat lose weight.

Respiratory diseases

If the cat is not a short-nosed cat and besides snoring while sleeping, it also has symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, loss of appetite, lethargy, etc., it may be pathological snoring caused by respiratory infections. It is necessary to take the cat to the pet hospital as soon as possible for examination.