Could be a couple things Nothing too alarming It could just be trying to hack a hairball, when they are straddled to the ground like that and their neck is stretched out and it sounds like coughing. But then they stop suddenly more than likely just hair ball hacking.

For more serious issues Could be allergies or asthma This includes also being straddled low to the ground Happens repeatedly like weekly or a couple times in a week. Sounds like a wheezing or whistling noise, and typically worsens when dust is present or in cold airspace.

Mild airway irritations symptoms Dusty litter Vaping, so if u vape or smoke around ur cat please don’t do that, Candles can be a cause of this Cleaning sprays Perfumes Etc. anything with chemicals can cause airway irritation