Pneumonia in cats: symptoms

Pneumonia affects the lungs, so signs can include rapid or laboured breathing, coughing, nasal discharge, fever, reduced appetite, weight loss, tiredness, and hiding. Some cats do not cough even when their lungs are inflamed. A cat may breathe with its mouth open, stretch its neck, or use its belly noticeably with each breath. These signs can also occur with asthma, heart disease, a foreign object, or another infection, so symptoms alone cannot confirm pneumonia.

Contact a veterinarian promptly if your cat has a new cough, discharge, fever, poor appetite, or unusual quietness. Keep the cat calm in a carrier, avoid smoke and strong fragrances, and offer water and familiar food without force. Record changes in breathing and behaviour, and show the veterinarian a short video if safe. Do not give human medicines or use steam, oils, or leftover antibiotics without veterinary guidance.

Open-mouth breathing, blue or grey gums, severe effort, collapse, or inability to stay awake requires an emergency veterinarian. Go urgently if breathing worsens quickly or the cat cannot eat, drink, or swallow normally. Keep handling brief and avoid compressing the chest during transport.

Ask whether the breathing pattern fits pneumonia, which tests can identify the cause, how to monitor breathing at home, and which changes require immediate return.