My cat just started making a gurgling sound after drinking water, should I be worried?

After my cat took a drink of water this afternoon, I noticed she started making a strange gurgling sound, almost like she was having trouble swallowing or had something stuck in her throat. It's unusual for her since she's normally so quiet after drinking. Is this a sign of something serious, or just an odd sound that sometimes happens? Should I take any action?

Embark Dog DNA Test

Recommended Product

Your dog's DNA could reveal hidden health risks.

Screen for 270+ genetic health risks and 350+ breeds. Veterinarian developed, research partner of Cornell University.

$199 USD
$139 USD
Save $60· Free US Shipping

Answer

It's concerning that your cat is making a gurgling sound after drinking water. This could indicate a mild irritation, or it might suggest something more serious affecting her throat or swallowing.

  • Monitor her breathing closely for any signs of distress.
  • Check if the sound persists or if she shows other unusual symptoms.
  • Consider consulting with a vet if you're unsure or if the symptoms continue.

The gurgling sound you're describing may sometimes occur if your cat drank the water too quickly or if there's a mild irritation in the throat. However, it can also indicate a potential blockage or a more serious issue affecting her respiratory or digestive systems. Watching her behavior and looking for additional symptoms such as coughing, gagging, or loss of appetite is important. These signs can help identify if this is just an odd sound or something that needs attention.

If this is an emergency, please seek immediate veterinary care.

Book a consultation with a licensed vet at Dial A Vet for just $49 AUD if you're unsure or symptoms are getting worse.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What could be causing my cat's gurgling sound?

    This sound could be caused by your cat drinking too quickly or having a mild throat irritation. However, persistent sounds might indicate a foreign object, respiratory infection, or an underlying health issue.

  • Should I try to look inside my cat's mouth or throat?

    It is generally not recommended to check deeply inside your cat’s mouth or throat yourself as this can cause stress or injury. Instead, observe her behavior and consult a vet if the symptoms do not resolve quickly.

  • What signs indicate I need to visit the vet immediately?

    If your cat is experiencing difficulty breathing, continuous or loud gurgling, coughing, wheezing, or any signs of distress, please seek immediate veterinary care.

Clinically Approved Standard by Dial A Vet Veterinary Team

Disclaimer: The customer and expert messages presented herein may have been altered with artificial intelligence or modified to enhance readability and safeguard the privacy of individuals. This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If your pet is experiencing a medical emergency, contact your local veterinarian or emergency animal hospital immediately. Talk to a vet now.

Next available appointment

Loading…