Expert: Charlotte Sherrell, DVM - 5/5/2010

Question
Our 11 year old domestic shorthair female has been ailment free except for a bout of conjunctivitis 2 months ago. That treatment was a success but she has developed a daily bout of coughing that looks like a hairball evacuation, and sounds like a cough with some nasal sound and yields no discharge. She appears otherwise as healthy and symptom free as ever. It happens every evening between 10pm and 1am. (bedtime) There doses not seem to be a precursor and when she is finished (about 10 seconds in duration) she sort of catches her breath and goes about her business. She is always in our care having the run of the house and a secure yard with a 20 foot leash. I wanted to see if I can get an opinion before we go to the vet. Since it does not seem dire and in the absence of other symptoms I wanted to wait for my next check. Any thoughts, Doctor?
Thanks

Answer
Bill  -

Unfortunately, I cannot diagnose your kitty's ailment without the benefit of a physical exam.  It sounds as if she may have an allergic reaction to something or there may be something in her nose.  

A visit to the vet is warranted -you may want to request bloodwork, too.

Best Regards,

Charlotte Sherrell, DVM