There are a number of possible causes these are the most common reasons:

Asthma - causes coughing, choking/retching but nothing comes up. A couple of symptoms you might notice along with this is the third eyelid may extend over the inner part of their eye when the cat is feeling unwell (even if they don't appear unwell). And you might notice your cat avoiding any strenuous exercise, running or play since they can't get as much oxygen as they need.

Hairballs - a possible obvious cause. If your cat sheds a lot or washes itself a lot & you don't brush it, it may have a hairball or two that's unable to pass out of the stomach & is causing these symptoms.You could try to use a hairball remedy for 3 days to see if it helps. If it goes away, great! But if after 3 days treatment, the problem remains, it's unlikely to be a hairball. Please DON'T use a liquid mineral oil but a proper hairball remedy.

Other causes are more serious & warrant a vet visit as it may be very serious & even fatal!

Mozza (forever loved) answered on 12/8/07. Helpful? / 0