Sneezing cats can be pretty cute. When your cat sneezes a few times, you might say lightheartedly, “Aww, do you have a kitty cold?” But when it keeps happening, it may have you thinking, “Wait, are you actually sick?” Let’s go over why cats sneeze and how to know when it’s time to visit your veterinarian.
Why Do Cats Sneeze?
Sneezing is a normal function that helps cats clear their nose. Similar to people, there are many reasons why a cat sneezes, from something irritating their nasal passages to a serious respiratory infection. Sometimes a sneeze is innocent and nothing to worry about, but it can also be the sign of something more concerning that needs veterinary care, especially if your cat has other symptoms, too.
Help! My Cat Keeps Sneezing
If your cat suddenly starts sneezing, think about whether anything has changed in their environment. Were they being a curious kitty and sticking their nose in or under something, and now it’s up their nose (like a dust bunny from under the couch)? Is there a strong smell in the house that’s irritating their nasal passages (perfume, cologne, cleaning products, spices, candles)? See if you can think of a reason for their ah-choos and remove the irritants from your cat’s environment.
Why Is My Cat Sneezing and Coughing?
If your cat’s sneezes don’t go away, or they are accompanied by other symptoms like eye or nasal discharge, coughing or loss of appetite, it’s time for a visit to your vet. Not eating is especially important to have evaluated, as cats are at risk of a serious condition called fatty liver syndrome (aka hepatic lipidosis) if they stop eating for more than 36 hours.
If your sneezing cat has any of the symptoms below or other signs of illness, take them to your veterinarian. Symptoms to watch for include:
- Eye discharge
- Nasal discharge (including blood)
- Redness or swelling
- Difficulty breathing
- Pawing at their face
- Appetite loss
- Coughing
- Fever
- Dehydration
- Lethargy
- Weight loss
- Snoring
Health Conditions Related to Sneezing in Cats
If your cat is continuously sneezing, it’s a good idea to visit your veterinarian as there are a number of health conditions they could have, including:
- Upper respiratory infection
- Inflammation of the nasal membranes or sinuses
- Chronic respiratory condition
- Allergies
- Foreign object lodged in their nose
- Dental disease
- Nasal passage tumors or polyps
Upper Respiratory Infections
Upper respiratory infections are typically caused by viruses or bacteria (and occasionally fungi). Common upper respiratory viruses include feline herpesvirus type 1 (also called feline viral rhinotracheitis) and feline calicivirus. The feline distemper combination vaccine (FVRCP) protects against these two viruses as well as feline panleukopenia. Bacterial infections are often caused by Bordetella, Mycoplasma or Chlamydia. Vaccines are available against Chlamydia felis and Bordetella bronchiseptica. Ask your veterinarian which vaccines are recommended for your cat.
Many of these pathogens are highly contagious, so make sure you separate your sick cat from other cats in your home. Symptoms of an upper respiratory viral or bacterial infection include fever, red eyes, nasal discharge and appetite loss. If your cat has very mild symptoms, your vet may decide that no treatment is necessary — just like when we have a mild cold. For a more serious upper respiratory infection, your vet may prescribe antibiotics (for secondary infections) or antiviral medications, eye or nose drops or steroids. If your cat is dehydrated, your vet may administer subcutaneous fluids.
Rhinitis and Sinusitis
When a cat’s nasal membranes or sinuses are inflamed (called rhinitis or sinusitis), it can cause sneezing and nasal discharge like an upper respiratory infection, but they may also paw at their face, have trouble breathing and experience reverse sneezing (more on that below). These conditions can become chronic, with chronic rhinitis or sinusitis symptoms lasting for weeks or months, flaring up when a cat is under stress. Your vet will decide how to treat rhinitis or sinusitis, which may include a nasal passage flush, antibiotics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or steroids.
Allergies
Sneezing is a common symptom of allergies in humans (especially those allergic to cats), but not so much for cats. Cat allergens more commonly cause itchiness, skin irritation and hair loss in the places they’ve been continuously scratching. If you think your cat has an allergy to something, ask your veterinarian about management options.
Dental Diseases and Foreign Bodies
If your feline friend is sneezing and also has a stinky breath, it might be their mouth that’s the problem. Infected teeth can cause inflammation and swelling, leading to nasal discharge and sneezing. If you smell something stinky near their face, they may have something stuck up their nose. Do not try to remove a foreign body yourself. Always take your cat to your veterinarian.
Why Is My Cat Reverse Sneezing?
Reverse sneezing is uncommon in cats, but it can happen. It may sound like a sudden snort, gasp or honk — and while it can sound alarming, it’s usually harmless if it only happens occasionally. A reverse sneeze occurs when air is quickly pulled in through the nose, rather than pushed out like in a normal sneeze. If your cat has frequent episodes or any other unusual breathing sounds, it’s a good idea to have your veterinarian check them out to rule out underlying issues.
When to Seek Cat Sneezing Treatment
An occasional sneeze may be nothing to be concerned about. But if your cat’s sneezing blood, has respiratory symptoms or any other signs of illness, contact your veterinarian. Kittens and older cats’ immune systems typically don’t work as well, making them more susceptible to disease. So take kittens and senior cats to your vet as soon as they show signs of illness, even if it’s only mild symptoms. Cats can make a lot of weird sounds, so if you’re not sure if they’re actually sneezing, try to catch their sneezing on video so you can show it to your veterinarian.
