My cat is snoring. Is that normal?

What is snoring?

Snoring is defined as an audible sound caused by the vibration of the soft palate and other throat tissues as air passes through the nasal passages. It can be relatively loud and is usually most noticeable when a cat is lying on its side. Some cats may make a ‘honking’ sound or wheezing noise when they are snoring.

Similarly, if you notice your cat making snoring noises even when awake, this could also be an indication that something is wrong and it's time to call the vet. Most of the time, however, cat snoring is related to their sleep habits, not to sickness.

Cat sleeping habits.

How much sleep do cats need?

Cats typically sleep anywhere between 12 and 16 hours a day, which is about twice as much as humans. For kittens or senior cats, even 20 hours of rest per day is not considered oversleeping. 

When your cat snores, it is usually a sign that they are in a deep sleep. And most cats are sleep experts. In fact, many of our feline friends have specific preferences for where they like to sleep too — many cats prefer sleeping on a perch or near a warm source such as a sunny window.

Is it normal for cats to snore?

Yes, it is normal for cats to snore gently while resting. However, if your cat is making unusually loud sounds, there may be an underlying issue that needs to be investigated. Wheezing and honking noises could be a sign that your cat is having difficulty breathing. Have your pet checked out by a veterinarian as soon as possible. 

It is possible for cats to suffer from sleep apnea, which is a condition where the airways are blocked and can cause loud snoring. Other conditions that can cause loud snoring in cats include obesity, allergies, upper respiratory infections, or even foreign objects in their nose or throat.

When is cat snoring a sign of a health issue?

Snoring in cats is not uncommon and is often seen as a sign of contentment. However, there are times when snoring can be indicative of an underlying medical issue. For example, if your cat is snoring, but also sounds congested or is breathing heavily through their nose, it may be suffering from a respiratory infection. Additionally, honking and wheezing noises that occur while the cat is awake can also be signs of respiratory issues. 

If your pet appears to be having difficulty breathing, or their snoring or wheezing sounds are so loud and persistent that they wake you up, then it is important to call your cat's vet for a consultation or appointment. A medical professional will be able to diagnose any potential health issues and provide your cat with the appropriate treatment.

Do cats snore while awake?

Many cats may honk, snore, wheeze or even sound congested when they are in the middle of a deep sleep. But why do cats make these kinds of noises when they are awake? 

The answer lies in the cat’s anatomy. Cats have narrow nasal passages which can easily become blocked by mucus, allergies, or other debris. If a cat is breathing heavily through their nose, this can cause snoring and wheezing sounds. Additionally, some cats may have shorter than average nasal passages, leading to the same noise. 

It is normal for cats to snore or make other noises while they are awake. However, if the snoring or wheezing persists for more than a few days, or if your cat appears to be having difficulty breathing, you should take them to the vet right away.

How do you stop your cat from snoring?

It can be concerning to hear your cat snoring, and it's natural to want to help them stop. Fortunately, there are a few steps you can take to reduce the chances of your cat snoring at night.

First, make sure that your cat is sleeping in a comfortable environment. Keep your home at a comfortable temperature and check for drafts. Additionally, provide your cat with a warm and cozy bed to sleep in.

You should avoid giving your cat any form of sedatives or tranquilizers that may cause them to snore more than usual. Additionally, try to keep your cat active throughout the day, as this can help them rest better at night. 

If you think your cat might be snoring due to a medical condition such as a cold or allergies, then consider consulting with a vetrinarian. Your vet can diagnose your cat’s condition and provide advice on the best course of action. This could include changing their diet or taking medication to reduce the severity of their symptoms.

Finally, a clean litter box can also be key to preventing snoring in your cat. If your cat has asthma or another respiratory ailment, high-dust litter or foreign particles can enter your pet's lungs and activate its condition. Therefore, be sure to keep your box clean, and use a dust-free, eco-friendly litter.