Why does a cat cough when it drinks? - briefly
When cats drink water, they often swallow air along with the liquid. This air can irritate their respiratory system, causing them to cough or choke briefly.
Why does a cat cough when it drinks? - in detail
Cats are known for their unique drinking behavior, which often includes lapping water quickly and then exhibiting what appears to be a cough or hacking sound afterward. This phenomenon is not a sign of illness but rather a normal part of a cat's physiology and instinctual behaviors.
When a cat drinks water, it uses its tongue to lap the liquid rapidly. The tongue is equipped with tiny spines called papillae that help to channel the water toward the throat. This rapid lapping action creates a small amount of air that mixes with the water as it enters the mouth. As this air-water mixture moves down the esophagus and into the stomach, some of the air can become trapped in the respiratory system.
To expel this excess air, the cat will often make a coughing or hacking sound. This action is similar to humans clearing their throats after drinking too quickly or swallowing air. The cough helps to clear the airways and prevents any potential discomfort or irritation that might arise from having air trapped in the lungs.
Additionally, cats have evolved this behavior as a way to protect themselves from predators while drinking. By drinking quickly and then making a loud noise, such as a cough, they can alert their surroundings to their presence and potentially deter any nearby threats. This instinctual response serves both a physiological purpose in clearing the airways and a protective function in alerting the environment to the cat's location.
In summary, a cat's cough after drinking is a normal and instinctive behavior that helps to clear excess air from the respiratory system and may also serve as a protective mechanism against predators. There is no cause for concern unless the coughing is accompanied by other symptoms such as lethargy, loss of appetite, or difficulty breathing, in which case a veterinarian should be consulted.