An occasional sneeze in a cat is normal and not a cause for concern. Just like in humans, sneezing in cats is an explosive release of air through the nose and mouth, often in response to irritants in the nasal passages. However, if your cat’s sneezing persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, it may be necessary to consult a veterinarian to determine if treatment is needed.
Why Is My Cat Sneezing? Causes of Sneezing
If your cat sneezes frequently, a visit to the veterinarian is recommended. One of the primary causes of sneezing is infection. In some cases, the veterinarian may take a sample from the mouth, throat, eyes, or nose and send it to a lab to confirm the presence of an infection. Inhaled irritants or allergens are other common causes of sneezing in cats.
Why Is My Cat Sneezing? Viral, Bacterial, or Fungal Infections
If your cat is sneezing, there’s a good chance they have an upper respiratory infection. Similar to colds in humans, these infections are more common in young cats, especially those from shelters. Many of these infections can be prevented through early and complete vaccinations.
Types of Viral Infections That Can Cause Sneezing in Cats
- Feline Herpesvirus: Cats contract herpes through exposure to other infected cats. Stress can trigger a recurrence, as well as transmission to other cats. Treatment focuses on symptom management. Feline herpesvirus is not contagious to humans.
- Feline Calicivirus: This virus is highly contagious among cats. Mouth ulcers are the most common issue, but it can also affect the respiratory tract and even cause pneumonia.
These infections can make your cat more susceptible to developing other respiratory issues that may worsen sneezing. For example, a cat with herpes may also develop a secondary bacterial infection, which is often treatable with antibiotics.
Why Is My Cat Sneezing? Other Infections That Can Cause Sneezing
- Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP): This may cause no symptoms, mild symptoms, or severe symptoms over time.
- Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV): This develops slowly but severely weakens a cat’s immune system, leaving them vulnerable to other infections.
- Feline Leukemia: A serious and often fatal infection.
- Chlamydia: Often causes eye infections (conjunctivitis).
- Bordetella
- Mycoplasma
Why Is My Cat Sneezing? Inhaled Irritants or Allergens
If your cat sneezes only occasionally, it may simply be due to nasal irritation. By observing your cat’s behavior closely, you might even identify the cause yourself.
Does it happen after you light candles at the dinner table?
After your cat leaves the litter box?
After you clean the house?
When you smoke a cigarette?
Examples of potential irritants or allergens that can cause sneezing in cats:
- Cigarette smoke
- Perfume or air fresheners
- Pest control sprays
- Cat litter, especially dusty types
- Cleaning agents and detergents
- Candles
- Dust
- Pollen
- Mold
If sneezing is related to allergies, your cat may also experience itchy skin.
Why Is My Cat Sneezing? Other Potential Causes of Sneezing
A variety of other factors can contribute to sneezing in cats. For example, it’s common for cats to sneeze for four to seven days after receiving an intranasal vaccine. This sneezing typically lasts no more than a few days. Cats may also sneeze to try to clear a blockage in their nasal passages.
An infection or inflammation of a tooth root can cause drainage into the sinuses and lead to sneezing. In very rare cases, sneezing in cats can be a sign of cancer.
Sneezing and Other Symptoms
Symptoms that accompany sneezing in cats can result from a wide range of infections and other issues. These symptoms may include:
- Eye discharge, swelling, or ulcers
- Excessive nasal discharge, sometimes yellow or green (a possible sign of bacterial infection)
- Fatigue or depression
- Fever
- Excessive drooling
- Decreased appetite or weight loss
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Wheezing or coughing
- Poor coat condition
- Difficulty breathing
- Diarrhea
Visit your veterinarian if your cat’s sneezing is associated with any of the above symptoms.
When Should You See a Veterinarian?
If your cat sneezes occasionally, has no other symptoms, or only mild symptoms, you may want to monitor their condition for a few days. Keep your cat indoors and observe any changes. However, visit a veterinarian if your cat:
- Sneezes continuously or frequently
- Sneezes blood
- Shows other symptoms listed above
These could be signs of an illness or condition requiring veterinary care.
Treatment Depends on the Cause
Treatment for sneezing depends on the underlying cause. In mild cases, the veterinarian may suggest measures to make your cat more comfortable, such as using a humidifier. In other cases, antibiotics, antihistamines, steroids, or fluids may be necessary. Rarely, cats that do not respond to medical therapy may require surgery.
By understanding the potential causes of sneezing in cats and knowing when to seek veterinary care, you can ensure your feline friend stays healthy and comfortable. If you’re ever in doubt, it’s always best to consult your veterinarian for professional advice.
