Cat Sneezing: Common Causes and When to See a Vet

Sneezing is a common reflex in cats, just like in humans, often triggered by irritation in the nasal passages. Occasional sneezing in cats may not be a cause for concern, but frequent or persistent sneezing can indicate an underlying health issue. If your cat's sneezing is accompanied by other symptoms like discharge from the nose or eyes, coughing, or lethargy, it’s essential to investigate further. Understanding the potential causes of sneezing can help you determine when it’s time to seek veterinary care.

Why Is My Cat Sneezing?

• Viral respiratory infections

Such as feline herpesvirus (FHV-1) and feline cupripox virus infections, these viruses can cause symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose and coughing. 

• Bacterial infections

Such as Mycoplasma and Chlamydia infections, these bacteria usually enter the nasal passages after a viral infection and cause further infection. 

• Fungal infections

Such as cryptococcosis, this infection can lead to upper respiratory symptoms and polyp-like lumps in the nostrils. 

• Allergic reactions

Cats may develop allergic rhinitis to allergens such as pollen, dust, and perfumes. 

• Foreign body irritation

A cat's nose is prone to sand or small particulate matter, which can irritate the nasal passages and cause sneezing. 

• Odor irritation

Strong odors, such as cleaning chemicals or tobacco smoke, can also cause cats to sneeze. 

• Rhinitis and Sinusitis

These inflammatory conditions can cause persistent sneezing and nasal discharge. 

• Feline Nasal Branch

This is an acute infectious disease caused by the feline rhinotracheitis herpesvirus, and symptoms include sneezing and runny nose. 

• Upper Respiratory Infections (URI) in Cats

Typical symptoms of upper respiratory infections in cats include sneezing, a runny nose (which may be clear or colored), increased eye discharge, difficulty breathing, coughing, loss of appetite, depression, and sometimes fever. These symptoms are due to inflammation of the nose, throat and/or sinuses caused by a viral, bacterial or fungal infection. If your cat is experiencing one or more of these symptoms, it is recommended that you contact your veterinarian as soon as possible for examination and treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment is essential to prevent the infection from worsening and to reduce your cat's discomfort.

These infections are typically viral, but secondary bacterial infections can worsen symptoms. In addition to sneezing, you may notice nasal discharge, coughing, lethargy, fever, and loss of appetite.

Sneezing in cats can be a symptom of one or more of these causes, and if symptoms persist or are accompanied by other serious symptoms, your cat should be taken to a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. 

How to Tell If Cat's Sneezing is Caused by a Common Cold or a Serious Illness

Distinguishing between the symptoms of a common cold and a serious illness

Sneezing in cats can be caused by a number of things, including the common cold and more serious illnesses such as feline nasal stenosis. Here are some symptoms that can help you distinguish between the two conditions.

• Common Cold

Cats may sneeze occasionally, accompanied by watery nasal discharge, and their appetite and mobility are usually not too affected. The symptoms of a cold in this case are similar to those of a mild cold in humans, and usually do not require special medical intervention and can be recovered naturally by providing a warm and comfortable environment and proper rest. 

• Feline Nasal Strain

This is a serious respiratory disease caused by the feline herpes virus. Symptoms include frequent sneezing, yellow-green or purulent nasal discharge, red and inflamed eyes, increased eye discharge, loss of appetite, depression, fever and coughing. Symptoms of feline nasal branching may last for days or weeks and are highly contagious. If your cat develops these symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately for treatment. 

• Recognizing Emergencies

1. Persistent sneezing
2. Difficulty breathing or open-mouth breathing
3. Loss of appetite or signs of dehydration
4. Abnormal behavior or extreme fatigue
5. Unusual color or dramatic increase in eye or nose discharge

Recognizing and acting on these symptoms is critical to your cat's health. It is very important to keep your cat comfortable and hydrated while waiting to be seen by your veterinarian.

How to Know What Causes Upper Respiratory Tract Infections in Cats?

Distinguishing whether a feline upper respiratory tract infection is caused by a virus or a bacterium usually relies on the veterinarian's clinical experience and laboratory testing. Here are some key points, based on search results, to help distinguish between viral and bacterial upper respiratory tract infections.

Characteristics of viral infections

1. Feline herpesvirus (FHV-1) infections are usually accompanied by dendritic corneal ulcers and salivation.
2. Feline cup virus (FCV) infection may result in symptoms such as ulcers in the mouth, tongue ulceration, and stomatitis.
3. The PCR assay is a commonly used laboratory test that directly detects viral DNA in the feline respiratory pentamer. 

Related:  Cat Herpes: FVR and FHV-1 Symptoms and Treatments

Characterization of Bacterial Infections

1. Chlamydia infections usually complicate conjunctivitis.
2. Borrelia infections may result in coughing and pneumonia in kittens.
3. Bacterial cultures and serologic tests can be used to diagnose bacterial infections. 

Comprehensive Diagnosis

1. Your veterinarian may use a combination of your cat's clinical signs, symptoms, and laboratory test results to determine the pathogen responsible for the infection.
2. In some cases, cats may be infected with both viruses and bacteria, so treatment options may require a combination of antiviral and antibacterial drugs. 

The final diagnosis should be determined by your veterinarian on a case-by-case basis, and a treatment plan should be developed accordingly. If your cat is showing signs of an upper respiratory infection, you should contact your veterinarian as soon as possible for professional evaluation and treatment.

How to Care for a Cat Sneezing Because of an Upper Respiratory Tract Infection?

The following care measures should be taken after upper respiratory tract infection in cats.

• Isolation treatment

As upper respiratory tract infection is contagious, the sick cat should be isolated from other family members to prevent the spread of the virus. 

• Environmental cleaning

Regularly use disinfectants to clean the environment at home, especially the areas that cats often touch, such as food bowls, water bowls and cat litter boxes. 

• Provide a comfortable resting environment

Ensure your cat has a quiet, warm and well-ventilated resting space to aid its recovery. 

• Encourage water intake and proper diet

Cats may lose their appetite when they are sick. Fresh drinking water and easily digestible food should be provided to maintain their hydration and nutritional intake. 

• Monitor changes in symptoms

Closely observe your cat's symptoms, such as temperature, appetite, breathing and excretion, and promptly record and report any abnormal changes to your veterinarian. 

• Administer medication as prescribed by the veterinarian

Give your cat appropriate medication, such as antibiotics, antiviral drugs or other supportive treatments, according to your veterinarian's prescription and strictly follow the doctor's instructions. 

• Avoid self-medication

Do not self-administer human medication or veterinary medication without veterinary guidance to your cat, as this may cause adverse reactions or affect the therapeutic effect. 

• Regular review

Follow the veterinarian's recommendations for review to assess the treatment effect and adjust the treatment plan. 

The above measures will help speed up the recovery process of your cat and reduce the risk of complications. It is very important to maintain communication with your veterinarian throughout the treatment period.

Why are Cats More Likely to Sneeze in Cold Weather?

The relationship between cat sneezing and cold weather

• Decreased immunity

Cold temperatures may affect your cat's immune system, making it more susceptible to viruses and bacteria, which are common causes of upper respiratory tract infections that may lead to sneezing. 

• Increased respiratory sensitivity

Cold air may irritate your cat's nasal passages, making pre-existing minor respiratory problems more pronounced and causing sneezing. 

• Changes in indoor air quality

During the winter months, people may reduce ventilation to keep warm, which can lead to a buildup of pollutants and allergens in the indoor air, increasing your cat's risk of sneezing. 

• Stress reaction

Dramatic changes in temperature can cause stress in cats, and upper respiratory symptoms may be exacerbated by stress, including sneezing. 

Therefore, in order to minimize sneezing in cold weather, it is recommended to keep the room warm and moderately ventilated to maintain good air quality, while being mindful of your cat's overall health and comfort. If your cat's sneezing symptoms persist or are accompanied by other health problems, you should consult your veterinarian promptly.

How Should I Clear My Cat's Nasal Passages When She Appears to Sneeze?

• Steps to clear your cat's nasal passages

When your cat sneezes, secretions may accumulate in the nasal passages, which need to be gently cleared to help relieve the discomfort. Below are the steps to clear your cat's nasal passages.

• Prepare the tools

Prepare some soft sterile cotton balls or swabs, saline or warm water, small containers and paper towels.

• Immobilize the cat

Gently hold the cat so that its head is slightly tilted so that the liquid can flow out.

• Moisten the cotton ball

Dip the cotton ball in the wet saline or warm water, squeeze out the excess water and make sure the cotton ball is not too wet.

• Wipe gently

Gently wipe the inside of your cat's nostrils with a moistened cotton ball to remove any discharge. The action should be gentle to avoid penetrating deep into the nasal cavity or causing discomfort to the cat.

• Replacement of cotton balls

Use a new cotton ball each time until the cotton ball no longer carries secretions.

• Drying the nasal passages

Use a dry cotton ball or clean tissue to gently press on your cat's nostrils to absorb excess moisture.

• Comforting the cat

Gently reassure your cat during the cleaning process to avoid it feeling nervous or scared.

If the cat shows strong resistance or signs of pain during the cleaning process, stop immediately and consult your veterinarian. Regular cleaning of the nasal passages can help maintain your cat's breathing and reduce discomfort caused by the accumulation of secretions. If sneezing persists or is accompanied by other abnormal symptoms, the cat should be taken to the veterinarian for examination. 

How to Minimize Sneezing in Cats?

Cat sneezing can be related to indoor humidity, and too much or too little humidity can irritate your cat's nasal passages. To minimize your cat's sneezing, you can take the following steps to regulate indoor humidity.

Provide a clean and comfortable environment

Regularly clean your cat's living area, including the litter, eating utensils and toys, to reduce the accumulation of dust and allergens. 

Avoid irritating odors

Do not use perfumes, air fresheners and other products that may stimulate your cat's sense of smell at home. 

Immunization

Ensure your cat is up to date with vaccinations, especially the feline triple vaccine, to prevent viral respiratory infections. 

Nutrition and Exercise

Provide a balanced diet and moderate exercise to enhance your cat's immunity. 

Regular deworming

Deworm your cat regularly to prevent parasitic infections which may cause inflammation of the respiratory tract. 

Monitor your cat's health

Watch your cat for symptoms other than sneezing, such as a runny nose and increased eye discharge, and seek prompt medical attention. 

By doing the above, you can effectively regulate indoor humidity and create a more comfortable living environment for your cat, thus helping to reduce the frequency of sneezing. If your cat's sneezing symptoms persist or are accompanied by other health problems, you should consult your veterinarian.

FAQs

Conclusion

Cat sneezing can be caused by a variety of factors, including upper respiratory infections, allergies, irritants, or foreign objects in the nose. While occasional sneezing is normal, persistent or frequent sneezing, especially with other symptoms like nasal discharge or lethargy, may indicate an underlying health issue. Conditions like feline herpesvirus or dental disease can lead to sneezing, and some cases may require veterinary treatment. Home care, such as keeping the environment clean and avoiding strong irritants, can help prevent sneezing. Always consult a vet if the sneezing persists or worsens.