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Question:

Cat swallowing, yawning a lot with raspy meow

I'm really worried about my sweet kitty, Luna, and hoping someone might have some advice or ideas about what's happening. Over the past few days, I've noticed she's been swallowing and yawning a whole lot more than usual. It’s almost like she’s trying to clear her throat or something. Her meow has suddenly turned raspy, too, which has me quite concerned because she's usually such a vocal chatterbox. I haven’t noticed any other changes in her behavior – she's eating, drinking, and playing like normal. However, the raspy voice is new and is tugging at my heart. I just feel so anxious seeing her like this and not knowing what's going on. I'll be taking her to the vet soon, but if anyone’s dealt with anything similar and could share some insights, I’d be super grateful. Thanks in advance!

Answer:

Hello, I'm sorry to hear your cat is experiencing discomfort. The symptoms you describe—frequent swallowing, yawning, and a raspy meow—can all indicate a few possibilities. One common reason could be that your cat is dealing with a mild throat irritation or infection, often from something simple like allergen exposure or a minor cold. Another possibility is some kind of obstruction, like a hairball, which might be causing throat irritation.



At home, make sure your cat stays hydrated by encouraging them to drink water. Adding a little water to their food can help as well. Try to keep the environment calm and free of extra dust or allergens. If you feel comfortable, you can gently check your cat's throat for obvious obstructions, but only if they’re very relaxed and won't become stressed.



Keep an eye out for more serious signs like difficulty breathing, excessive drooling, a refusal to eat or drink, or if your cat seems in pain or very lethargic. These could indicate a more severe issue requiring immediate veterinary care.



Your furry friend's health is important, and while these home tips might help, I suggest booking a video consult with Dial A Vet. That way, we can take a closer look and give you the best guidance for your pet's specific situation.

Answered by

Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet

June 21, 2025

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The "Ask a Vet" forum on Dial A Vet offers general information and helpful tips on pet health, but it's not a substitute for professional veterinary care. The advice here doesn't create a veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and our vets can't diagnose or treat your pet remotely. For emergencies or specific medical concerns, always contact your local veterinarian immediately. Your pet's health is unique, and decisions should only be made after consulting with a qualified professional. By using this forum, you acknowledge these limitations and agree to seek in-person veterinary advice for all your pet's health needs. View our content guidelines.
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