What causes a cat to cough?

Factors that cause cats to cough include allergies, asthma, infection, worms and disease, according to WebMD. Airway restrictions, such as a tight collar, or conditions that cause inflammation can result in ongoing coughing.

Cats that spend a great deal of time outdoors are more susceptible to coughs caused by fungal lung infections and asthma, notes WebMD. Indoor aggravations, such as perfumes, cigarette smoke, mold and cat litter dust, contribute to allergy- and asthma-induced coughing. The presence of heartworms may also result in symptoms similar to those of asthma. Pneumonia, lung cancer and congestive heart failure are also conditions that can cause coughing symptoms in cats.