gagging cat

by Maryll
(Bloomington, IN USA)

Hello, Dr. Neely,

I have an 8 year old male cat who has recently started gagging while eating but also while not eating (not licking fur even but just laying there). When he does this, it scares him and he stops eating and even hisses at himself. He has started to lose weight. What might be causing this?

Thank you!


Dear Maryll,

Thank you for writing in with concern for your cat. Without seeing your cat in person for an examination, it is hard to say what might be causing the gagging and weight loss.

Possible causes of the gagging include obstructions or partial obstructions in the throat, which could be from a foreign object. Some cats gag from increased salivation, which would have an underlying cause.

Another possibility, considering his age and the fact that he is losing weight, is that your cat may have feline hyperthyroidism, causing his weight loss, and may even have a nodule on his thyroid, causing the gagging.

Your cat would need to be examined by a veterinarian in order to diagnose what is causing his symptoms. Your veterinarian will likely do bloodwork, and may recommend x-rays of his throat.

Regards,
Dr. Neely