Cat lovers are well-acquainted with the enigmatic ways of their furry companions. From following you into the bathroom to snoozing in the sink, and even exploring the neighbor’s abode, their antics never fail to charm. However, amidst these quirky behaviors, one action stands out as particularly puzzling — burping. Many pet parents find themselves questioning whether cats are even supposed to burp.
Is it Normal for Cats to Burp?
Yes, it is perfectly normal for cats to burp, albeit not all cats exhibit this behavior frequently. Burping in felines can sometimes indicate underlying medical issues related to the gastrointestinal system. Like many mammals, cats burp to alleviate gas resulting from swallowing excess air. However, due to their respiratory system’s design, which primarily involves breathing through the nose, cats don’t burp as frequently as humans do. Instead, they typically expel excess gas through flatulence. It’s essential to note that sounds mistaken for belching in cats with respiratory or nasal problems are often related to air passing through irritated airway passages.
Common Reasons Why Cats Burp
Cats burp for various reasons, with some being entirely benign while others may indicate an underlying medical condition. Here, we delve into the common causes of burping in our feline friends.
| Swallowing Too Much Air | Similar to humans, cats can inadvertently swallow air during activities like eating, drinking, and even sleeping. This excess air may be released through the digestive system as flatulence or, occasionally, expelled upwards as a burp. |
| Upset Stomach | Felines frequently experience upset stomachs, leading to a buildup of gas in their digestive systems. Burping serves as a natural mechanism for cats to regulate this excess gas. Causes of upset stomachs in cats include food allergies, bacterial infections, parasites, ingestion of toxins, and stomach ulcers. Implementing measures like feeding bland foods and avoiding table scraps can help alleviate stomach discomfort in cats, subsequently reducing the frequency of burping. |
| Vomiting and Hairballs | Vomiting, often accompanied by sounds mistaken for burping, is another common occurrence in cats. Eating too quickly can lead to a buildup of swallowed air, contributing to belching. Additionally, the expulsion of hairballs in cats is often accompanied by gagging reflexes, which can sound similar to burps. |
| Acid Reflux | Chronic acid reflux in cats can result in regurgitation and, occasionally, burping. Treatment typically involves medication prescribed by a veterinarian and dietary modifications to reduce acidity in the cat’s digestive tract. |
| Esophagitis | Symptoms such as frequent burping, persistent swallowing, and lip-licking may indicate esophagitis in cats. This condition occurs due to irritation and inflammation of the esophagus, often as a result of untreated heartburn or medication. |
| Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) | IBD is a common medical cause of feline belching, characterized by disruptions in the normal functioning of the digestive system. Alongside burping, symptoms of IBD in cats include weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and bloody stools. |
Should You Worry When Your Cat Burps?
Occasional burping in cats is typically nothing to be concerned about. However, if burping becomes frequent or is accompanied by other symptoms of gastrointestinal discomfort, consulting a veterinarian is advisable. While burping itself is usually a benign occurrence, it can sometimes indicate underlying medical issues such as IBD, acid reflux, or esophagitis.
What to Do When Your Cat Burps
If your cat exhibits uncharacteristic burping along with other signs of medical distress, contacting your vet is recommended. Providing your veterinarian with a video recording of any unusual behavior can aid in diagnosis. Depending on the underlying cause, your cat may benefit from specialty cat foods tailored to address digestive issues.
In summary, although occasional burping is a natural occurrence in cats to release excess air, persistent or frequent belching may signal underlying issues requiring veterinary care. By comprehending the factors contributing to your cat’s burping, you can ensure you provide the essential care and support needed for your feline companion’s health and overall well-being.