Catster is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

Is Cat Laryngitis Contagious? Health Facts & Care Guide (Vet Answer)

Written by: Dr. Marti Dudley, DVM (Vet)

Last Updated on October 4, 2024 by Catster Editorial Team

veterinarian checks mouth of the maine coon cat

Is Cat Laryngitis Contagious? Health Facts & Care Guide (Vet Answer)

VET APPROVED

Dr. Marti Dudley Photo

WRITTEN BY

Dr. Marti Dudley

Veterinarian, DVM

The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research.

Learn more »

If your cat has recently experienced a change in vocalization, swallowing, or a cough, it is possible that they have laryngitis, which is when their voice box becomes inflamed. There are several different causes of laryngitis, some of which can be contagious. Thankfully, we know that you are going to do everything in your power to get your cat back on track! Continue reading to learn more about laryngitis and what a diagnosis means for our cats.

divider 3 paws

What Is Laryngitis?

Laryngitis is the inflammation of the larynx, an important component of the upper respiratory tract. The larynx, also called the voice box, is responsible for protecting the lower respiratory tract from aspiration of food and fluid during swallowing. Additionally, the larynx is used to generate vocalization.

veterinarian checking the mouth of cat
Image Credit: PRESSLAB, Shutterstock

What Causes Laryngitis

There are several causes of laryngitis, and not all causes are contagious. Usually, primary laryngitis occurs without being the result of another illness and is thought to be an inflammatory condition. Primary laryngitis is less common than secondary laryngitis and is more likely to occur in cats than in dogs.

Secondary laryngitis is a sequela to another illness or a primary insult. Examples include foreign bodies, irritation, infection, and potentially even tumor development, among other things.

Infectious agents like herpesvirus, calicivirus, and chlamydia are potential instigators of laryngitis. Due to their highly contagious nature, a cat in close contact with an affected cat could develop clinical signs of illness, including laryngitis.

Signs of Laryngitis

  • Coughing
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Changes in vocalization
  • Gagging
  • Choking
  • Loud breathing (stridor)
  • Decreased appetite

If your cat’s laryngitis is potentially due to an infectious agent, other signs supportive of a cold may be noted. Signs of an upper respiratory infection include a runny nose, ocular discharge, sneezing, and lethargy.

If your pet is showing these signs, we suggest you speak to a vet.

💛 😺 Speak To a Vet Online From the Comfort of Your Couch!
PangoVet

If you need to speak with a vet but can’t get to one, head over to PangoVet. It’s an online service where you can talk to a vet online and get the personalized advice you need for your pet — all at an affordable price!

Diagnosing Laryngitis

Laryngitis may be suspected based on your pet’s history and physical examination. It can be confirmed through visualization of the larynx. This can be achieved through endoscopic evaluation of the larynx, called laryngoscopy.

Additionally, radiographs may be suggestive of soft tissue thickening around the larynx, which could be supportive of laryngitis. Advanced imaging and tissue sampling can help confirm inflammation of the larynx. If an infectious agent is suspected, PCR testing may reveal the responsible pathogen.

Treatment of Laryngitis

Treatment is focused on reducing inflammation of the larynx. Often, steroids are used to decrease inflammation. On occasion, when a bacterial cause is suspected, antibiotics may be used. In situations where the swelling is severe, debulking and possible tracheostomy may be needed if the airway becomes blocked.

Some veterinarians may recommend diuretics to help reduce the fluid accumulation occurring around and in the larynx. Pain control is important. If steroids do not bring relief, additional medications may be warranted. Adequate pain control can help to facilitate improvement in appetite.

Cat sitting on a vet metal table
Image Credit: Tyler Olson, Shutterstock

Supporting Your Cat With Laryngitis

Cats that are struggling with laryngitis should be closely monitored for worsening of their clinical signs. Additionally, if an underlying cause has not been identified, it may be beneficial to keep your cat isolated from others if they are considered contagious.

Avoid different stimuli that could exacerbate signs of laryngitis through irritation to the upper airway, including exercise, aerosols, or other chemicals.

Cats may be more inclined to eat canned or wet food while battling laryngitis, as it is easier to swallow. Owners may want to consider adding a humidifier to the room in which the cat stays during treatment.

3 cat divider

In Summary

Yes, some causes of laryngitis can be contagious. Determining if your cat is contagious or not will require additional diagnostics and a detailed history. Mild cases of laryngitis can be self-limiting, whereas other causes, like a foreign body or tumor, have an overall poorer prognosis and will require interventions. Closely monitoring your cat for signs of worsening is important, and care should be taken to avoid situations that may exacerbate signs.


Featured Image Credit: Ermolaev Alexander, Shutterstock

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate (you can leave written feedback after clicking submit)

Help us improve Catster for pet parents!

Your feedback really matters.

What did you like about this post? Also how can we improve it?

Leave a Reply

You’re very welcome to leave a comment or question. Please know that all comments must meet our community guidelines, and your email address will NOT be published. Let’s have a positive and constructive conversation.

PangoVet Image Speak With A Vet Online

Get Catster in your inbox!

Stay informed! Get tips and exclusive deals.
Catster Editors Choice Badge
Shopping Cart

Pangolia

© Pangolia Pte. Ltd. All rights reserved.