Cat having problem swallowing

Question
My 5yr old tabby has a problem when she attempts to eat. She smells the food and an overabundance of phlegm get into her throat and she has a hard time swallowing.  I've been trying to have her try to eat around the clock and make sure the food has a lot of liquid. She does not care for the high-calorie protein in the tube stuff. I know there is a pill used for humans... is there one for cats to help with this?

Answer
Hi Paul,

There are decongestants and expectorants that can be used in cats as prescribed by your vet. Has your kitty's condition been diagnosed? Most problems are upper airway and are best treated with an antibiotic or maintenance nose drop (saline only, unless otherwise prescribed by a vet). But chronic phlegm can also be caused by asthma or infections of the lungs. These require very different treatments. In general, expectorants and decongestants aren't necessary for cats as long as the underlying cause can be found and treated, but if your cat continues to suffer, certainly request that she be placed on a trial of the medication to see how she improves.

Best of luck,
Jessica