Aspiration Pneumonia in Cats: Signs, Causes, and Treatment

Aspiration pneumonia in cats is an uncommon, specific type of pneumonia (infection of the lungs) that can develop after a cat accidentally aspirates (inhales) foreign material into the lungs such as food, vomit, fluid (saliva), or even liquid medication. 

When foreign material accidentally enters the lungs, it causes irritation, inflammation, and infection of the lungs. 

If your cat is sick with coughing, abnormal breathing, and nasal discharge, your vet may suspect your cat could have aspiration pneumonia.  

Your vet will perform an exam and tests (chest X-rays and bloodwork) to determine why your cat is sick and the best treatment.  

What Is Aspiration Pneumonia in Cats?

The lungs function the same in cats as they do in humans; they remove used air (carbon dioxide) and supply the body with fresh oxygen in a process called ventilation. The lungs also transfer oxygen directly into the bloodstream to nourish tissues.  

Pneumonia occurs when the transfer of oxygen is disrupted. Aspiration pneumonia occurs when a cat accidentally breathes in a foreign substance, such as vomit, that interferes with oxygen transfer. 

Lack of oxygen for any reason can very quickly progress to severe illness, so if a cat shows any symptoms of aspiration pneumonia, it is important to take them to a veterinarian immediately.  

Symptoms of Aspiration Pneumonia in Cats

Symptoms of aspiration pneumonia in cats can occur quickly or develop slowly. The progression of symptoms will greatly depend on the severity of the aspiration. Some of the signs and symptoms include:  

• Heavy breathing 

• Increased heart rate 

• Lack of appetite 

• Green or yellow nasal discharge 

• Fever 

• Coughing 

• Lethargy 

• Respiratory distress 

• Open-mouth breathing 

Causes of Aspiration Pneumonia in Cats

Aspiration pneumonia is most commonly caused by accidentally inhaling vomit or contents from the stomach.  

Stomach acid can cause inflammation in the airways and often contains bacteria, which can lead to infection in the lung tissue, which then results in pneumonia.  

Other risks or health issues that can cause aspiration pneumonia include: 

• Throat or esophageal disorders (megaesophagus) 

• Anesthesia 

  • A cat under anesthesia has decreased swallowing and coughing reflexes, which can cause a cat to aspirate excess saliva or vomit.  

• Muscle disorders (myasthenia gravis) 

• Seizures (decreases the swallowing reflex) 

• Oral cavity defects (such as cleft palate) 

How Veterinarians Diagnose Aspiration Pneumonia in Cats

A history of vomiting, one or more of the clinical signs listed above, and a physical exam may lead your veterinarian to suspect aspiration pneumonia.  

Your cat’s breathing may also sound harsh when your veterinarian listens to their lungs.  

Tests your veterinarian may recommend include: 

• Radiographs (X-rays) of the chest are the primary tool in diagnosing aspiration pneumonia; X-rays will give your veterinarian a picture of how the lungs are functioning. Depending on the severity of your cat’s symptoms, your veterinarian may recommend additional testing. 

• A chemistry/complete blood count is a blood test that checks red and white blood cell levels, glucose levels, electrolytes, and organ function. This may be done in the hospital but may also need to be sent out to a laboratory. Results in cats with aspiration pneumonia will often show elevated levels of white blood cells and low red blood cell counts. 

• An upper respiratory panel is a specialized test in which a swab is taken of the upper airway to test for viruses and bacteria. 

• A culture may be taken from your cat’s trachea and/or nasal passage to determine what kind of bacteria is present and which antibiotics would be best to treat the infection. 

Treatment of Aspiration Pneumonia in Cats

Treatment will generally consist of broad-spectrum antibiotics. 

Depending on the severity of your cat’s pneumonia, your vet might prescribe one of these antibiotics, sometimes two medications in certain situations , including:  

• Doxycycline 

• Clavamox (amoxicillin-clavulanate) 

• Clindamycin 

• Baytril (enrofloxacin) 

Additional treatments may include:  

• Supportive care like intravenous (IV) fluid therapy 

• Supplemental nutrition therapy, potentially through a feeding tube 

• Nebulization to keep the airways moist, and supplemental oxygen 

• Antifungals or other medications if other causes are suspected 

Your cat’s prognosis depends on the severity of symptoms, their response to treatment, and the initial cause of the aspiration pneumonia. When medical attention is prompt, most cats recover well.  

Recovery and Management of Aspiration Pneumonia in Cats

Most cats with aspiration pneumonia will require at least some time in the hospital, and many will require supplemental oxygen. Hospitalization may be 1–3 days or more depending on their case. 

Antibiotics are likely to be prescribed to your cat for at least two weeks or possibly longer. 

Your vet will recheck your cat in 10–14 days to determine if the treatment is working for your cat, or to adjust the treatment plan as needed. 

 Most cats do not have any lingering issues once they have fully recovered from aspiration pneumonia. Certain cats with underlying issues may be susceptible to recurrence of aspiration pneumonia.