5 Reasons Why Does My Cat Snore And 4 Tips How to stop it

Do you ever hear your cat snoring in the middle of the night? Believe it or not, this is a fairly common occurrence. In fact, up to 30% of cats snore on a regular basis!

There are many different reasons why cats might start snoring, but fortunately, there are also many ways to help stop it.

In this blog post, we will discuss the causes of cat snoring and how you can help your furry friend get a good night’s sleep!

Why does my cat snore?

There are a few reasons why your cat snore, including:

Allergies

One of the most common reasons why cats snore is because they have allergies. Cats can be allergic to a variety of things, including dust, pollen, and certain types of food.

When a cat is allergic to something, it can cause inflammation in the nose and throat, which can lead to snoring.

Respiratory Infection

Another common reason for cat snoring is a respiratory infection. Respiratory infections are caused by viruses or bacteria, and they can cause inflammation in the nose and throat.

In some cases, respiratory infections can also lead to congestion, which can make it difficult for a cat to breathe and can cause them to snore.

Congenital defects

Some cats may also snore due to congenital defects, such as a deviated septum or narrow nostrils. These defects can make it difficult for a cat to breathe properly and can cause them to snore.

Obesity

Obesity is another common cause of cat snoring. When a cat is overweight, it can put pressure on the chest and lungs, which makes it difficult to breathe.

Additionally, fat deposits in the throat can also block the airway and cause snoring.

Stress

Finally, stress can also be a factor in why cats snore. When cats are stressed, they may pant or breathe heavily, which can lead to snoring.

Additionally, some cats may also sleep in positions that put pressure on their throats, which can also cause them to snore.

Should I be concerned about my cat snoring?

While it may be tempting to write off your cat’s snoring as just a funny quirk, it is important to note that in some cases, snoring can indicate a health issue.

For example, if your cat is snoring loudly or regularly, it could be a sign of sleep apnea.

Sleep apnea is a condition that causes breathing difficulties during sleep and can be dangerous if left untreated.

If your cat is showing other signs of respiratory distress, such as difficulty breathing or coughing, it is important to take them to see a veterinarian.

A vet will be able to determine the cause of your cat’s snoring and provide treatment if necessary.

In most cases, treatment for sleep apnea in cats will involve the use of oxygen therapy. With proper treatment, most cats with sleep apnea can enjoy a good quality of life.

How can I help my cat stop snoring?

There are several things that you can do to help reduce or eliminate your cat’s snoring.

Keep your cat at a healthy weight

When a cat is overweight, the excess fatty tissue in the throat can narrow the airway and make it difficult to breathe.

This can lead to snoring, which can be disruptive for both the cat and the owner. Keeping your cat at a healthy weight is the best way to reduce the risk of snoring. 

Keep your home clean and free of allergens

If allergies are causing your cat to snore, it is important to keep your home clean and free of potential allergens.

Vacuum regularly, and consider using air purifiers or special hypoallergenic bedding for your cat. 

Avoid stress

It is also important to try and reduce any sources of stress in your cat’s environment.

This can include ensuring they have enough space, providing plenty of enrichment, and making sure they have a safe place to hide if they feel overwhelmed. 

See a veterinarian for further treatment

If the above steps do not seem to help improve your cat’s snoring, it is important to see a veterinarian for further treatment.

A vet may be able to identify any underlying health issues or congenital defects that may be causing the snoring and provide treatment options.

Final thought

Cats snore for the same reason that people do: when they sleep, their muscles relax and their tongue falls back, blocking the airway.

In some cases, the obstruction is only partial, and the airway makes a vibrating sound as the cat breathes.

In other cases, the obstruction is complete, and the cat must struggle to breathe.

While snoring can be harmless, it can also be a sign of a serious medical condition, such as obesity or upper respiratory infection.

If your cat snores frequently or loudly, consult your veterinarian to rule out any potential health problems.