When Is It Time To See A Vet
Since many of these conditions are uncomfortable or painful, its never a bad idea to take your cat to the vet as soon as you notice a problem, even if sneezing is the only symptom.
However, these signs are more serious and require a vet visit sooner rather than later:
-
Loss of appetite
-
Persistence of symptoms beyond a few days
What To Make Of Your Cats Repetitive Sneezing
Picture this: Youre sitting on your couch watching your favorite TV show. Your lovable kitty is curled up in your lap or lounging on the other side of the room. Without warning, they rear up. Their face scrunches into a strange expressionand they let off a series of powerful sneezes.
If it happens once, watching a cat sneeze can be pretty amusing. Its also nothing to worry about. After all, you wouldnt get alarmed if you sneezed once or twice in a row. However, if the problem persists, and your cat continues to sneeze repeatedly, you might be witnessing a sign of a larger issue. Heres what might be to blame for your cats repetitive sneezing.
Why Does My Cat Sneeze
See files for Cats
It’s common to see our cat sneeze here and there. Just like us, cats will sneeze when their nasal passages are irritated. However, what does it mean if your cat has started to sneeze a lot? There are a number of reasons why your cat may have begun to sneeze a lot. It’s usually a symptom indicating an underlying health issue.
In this AnimalWised article we’re going to explain why your cat sneezes, the different causes and solutions.
Don’t Miss: When It Lands Rainbow Kitten Surprise Lyrics
Why Do Kittens Sneeze
If you notice your kitten sneezing now and then, there’s a good chance that it’s just reacting to some dust or fur that’s tickled its nose. Remember that kittens’ noses are just inches from the floor, so if your floor is dusty, you may notice a fair amount of sneezing. There’s a simple cure for this issue: Just dust and vacuum your floors a bit more frequently.
If your kitten has more than just a mild sneeze, possibilities include allergies, foreign objects stuck in nose or upper respiratory diseases. Foreign objects can be stuck in your pet’s nose without you knowing. A vet can check for and safely remove foreign objects. This may require sedation, nasal flushing and/or endoscopy to do this.
Can Cats Get Colds
Yes, just like their human owners, cats can catch colds. The cat flu is generally a viral or bacterial infection that leads to cold-like symptoms in cats, especially in younger cats or those who came from animal shelters. For the most part, cat colds will pass after a week or so, but some can last longer.
Recommended Reading: How To Make Cat In Little Alchemy
Allergies Toothaches And Objects
Cats can suffer from allergies, although they tend to have itchy skin more often than sneezing. If youve started using a new household cleaner, a different brand of cat litter, or made other changes that affect air quality, your cats nose might be irritated. If you cant eliminate the irritant, your cat might get used to it. If he doesnt, our CVETS staff can suggest ways to relieve your cats symptoms.
If you notice that your cat has difficulty chewing or eating, it might have a dental disease. Bacteria from the mouth can travel to the sinus cavities. An examination of your cats mouth and nose will help us diagnose and correctly treat the underlying medical issue.
Occasionally a foreign object gets lodged in a cats nose. Usually, a few sneezes will expel it. If not, one of our veterinarians can remove it. We strongly urge you to avoid trying to remove it yourself as you could injure your cat doing so.
What If My Cat Keeps Sneezing
It depends on the cause. If it is an isolated episode of cat sneezing, the issue is likely to go away and not return.
If your cat starts sneezing suddenly and it lasts several days, there is a possibility that the issue will resolve, but treatment will likely be needed.
If your cat suffers from chronic sneezing, however, they will likely be sneezing intermittently for the rest of their life. Persistence of sneezing to a chronic state substantially raises the odds that an underlying disease process is at play.
Read Also: What Is A Cat Year Equal To In Human Years
Is It Bad If My Dog Sneezes
It all depends. If your dog sneezes once or twice but otherwise look healthy, dont panic. But if you believe your dog is frightened or ill, you should see a vet. When sneezing is a symptom of anything more severe or life-threatening, such as breathing problems or something caught up in their nose, its essential to contact a vet.
The Difficulty In Diagnosis
If only our sneezing furry felines could tell us the problem, diagnosing their ailments would be much simpler. Unfortunately, sneezing is somewhat challenging to diagnose in cats. In fact, sometimes sneezing isnt actually sneezing at all!
Confirming the exact nature of your cats discomfort is the first step in diagnosing it. Sometimes, what appears to be a sneeze is actually a cough, gag, reverse sneeze, hiccup or wheeze. You can help your vet diagnose the problem by taking a video of your cat when theyre having a sneezing episode.
The good news is that, by itself, consistent sneezing in your pet is often easily treatable. You just have to stay vigilant about your pets health and seek help as early as you can. Your kittys sneezing fits should stop in no time!
Don’t Miss: Rick And Morty Talking Cat Theory
What To Do About Cat Sneezing
If your cat sneezes occasionally and otherwise seems healthy, then you probably have nothing to worry about. Make sure you bring your cat to the vet for a yearly physical, or as recommended by your vet. Your vet may be able to determine if there is an underlying health issue before it gets out of control. In between vet visits, you can check your cat’s head and face at home to look for abnormalities.
If your sneezing cat is also experiencing nasal congestion, eye discharge, or other cold-like signs, then it might be an upper respiratory infection or similar issue. URIs often cause a cat to sneeze out mucus that could be yellow or greenish in color. The eyes might be glassy, teary, or even excreting a yellow or green mucus. You may notice loud breathing and trouble passing air through the nostrils. It may seem just like the common cold we humans get, except that healthy cats don’t often “catch colds.” URIs in cats are often caused byfeline herpesvirus orcalicivirus. Be sure to bring your cat to the vet soon for treatment.
Why Is My Cat Sneezing A Lot
Everyone loves to hear a cute cat sneeze the sound can bring an instant smile to your face. But if your cats sneezing is suddenly constant, it could be a sign of a larger problem with your feline friend.
If youre wondering, Why do cats sneeze?, there are a number of reasons why cats get the sniffles. Some are less problematic than others. But if you are worried about a rise in sneezing, it is important to monitor your pets condition and overall health and determine if the sneezing issues are serious enough to bring the cat in to your local veterinary provider.
Use this informational guide to help you determine if your cats sneezing fits are normal or worth examining further.
Also Check: How Old Is 6 Cat Years In Human Years
Cat Sneezing Frequently: Home Remedy For Cats Sneezing
what makes a cat sneeze repeatedly with clear discharge and runny eyes? should I do mucus spraying? why is my cat removing wateryeye? and no other symptoms. you will find out all the causes of cat sneezing frequently: home remedy for cats sneezing
Sneezing accompanied by other symptoms can be a sign your cat is suffering from an upper respiratory tract infection or other underlying condition that may require veterinary care. Sneezing is a common symptom of upper respiratory tract infection in cats.
That Sensitive Nose: A Sneezing Cat With Allergies
Allergens are much more common than infectious diseases in cats. If Mittens is around something theyre allergic to, expect sneezing galore shortly after.
People who have allergies know just how miserable allergy season is. Blades of grass, pollen, and certain fungal spores are famously responsible for making cats sneeze. See, were not that different!
Don’t Miss: Human Vs Cat Years
What To Do If Your Cat Is Sneezing
If the sneezing is persistent it is important to see a veterinarian to ensure there is no underlying health problem such as an infection or allergy. If you are unsure and concerned about your cat please call one of our friendly healthcare team members and they can discuss your cat’s current health and wellness and provide further advice.
My Cat Is Sneezing: When To Be Concerned
Your cat hops up beside you on the couch, nuzzling your hand in an attempt to get pet. Once he takes a seat, he sneezes three times in a row. After saying bless you to your little feline friend, you cant help but wonder what caused the sneezing. Although sneezing in cats isnt always a cause for alarm, it is important to monitor it and pay attention to any other symptoms that may be present.
At Ponderosa Veterinary Clinic, we know it can be stressful not knowing the cause of your cats discomfort. This is why we strive to educate the Colorado Springs community about the causes that may be behind your cats sneezing. Even though sneezing is not always tied to a serious health concern, you should be sure to understand what causes it and when you need to take your cat to the vet.
Recommended Reading: Can Cats Eat Cinnamon Toast Crunch
Do I Need To Take My Sneezing Cat To The Vet
It is never a bad idea to take your cat to the vet when they begin to sneeze or sniffle. As you can see, multiple factors can cause a cat to sneeze, all of which should be assessed by a veterinarian.
While sneezing in your cat should always catch your attention, its even more critical to see a vet if they are experiencing other signs of illness as well.
To help you better assist your sneezing cat, lets list the signs of when its time to take your cat to the vet for sneezing.
Your sneezing cat should see the vet if:
- They are sneezing multiple times a day
- They are experiencing sneezing fits that will not resolve
- They appear lethargic or weak
- They are not eating, or have a decrease in appetite
- They are experiencing wheezing or other changes in breathing
- They are coughing
- They are displaying any signs of dental disease or pain
If your cat is experiencing any of the above behaviors, its always best to visit your veterinarian.
Inhalation Of A Foreign Object
Although it is less common in cats than in dogs, it is still possible for a cat to inhale a foreign object that could get stuck in her nose. This can block a cats airways and nasal passages. Even if the cat can still breathe normally through her mouth, her nose could be blocked by the object, and this could cause distress.
If this happens to your cat, she is likely to start sneezing to try to get rid of the object that is lodged in her nose. Try to look into her nose to see if you see the object. If so, take her to the vet right away.
Also Check: Hp Love Craft Cat Name
A Cat Runny Nose Is Not Good
You need to pay special attention to kittens who have a cold. Because theyre young, their immune system isnt as tough as that of an adult cat. Thus, theyll have a harder time fighting whatever infection is making them sick. On top of that, because they arent eating as much as before, they could lose too much weight, which can be dangerous.
Wash The Cat Bed Regularly
Regardless if you have an indoor or outdoor cat, you should make it a habit to wash its bed weekly. Over time, allergens and dirt will accumulate on the bed, which may trigger sneezing and allergic reactions. Also, if your cat has nasal discharge, it would usually wipe its nose on the beds surface.
Aside from the cat bed, you should also wash the padding of cat condos and cat trees. This will lessen your pets exposure to irritants.
You May Like: Cat Versus Human Years
How Is Sneezing In Cats Treated
Treatment is aimed at addressing the underlying cause of sneezing and may include:
- Vaccination is the best way to treat viral infections in cats but if your cat has already caught cat flu in most cases supportive care is all that can be provided. This may involve fluid treatment for dehydration, force feeding if the cat is not eating, and removal of discharge from nose to assist breathing, and eyes.
- Dental treatment and possible removal of a tooth in the case of a dental abscess.
- Surgery , chemotherapy and or radiotherapy for cancer.
- If possible, the removal of the cause of the allergy.
- Antibiotics for bacterial infections.
- Antifungal drugs for fungal infections.
How Do You Treat A Sneezing Cat
Treatment for cat sneezing is typically targeted at the underlying cause where possible.
While a wide variety of treatments are available, owners should be aware that the goal in most cases, especially chronic cases, is to reduce the frequency and severity of symptoms, not to cure them.
More research is needed to fully understand the role that infections play in cat sneezing, but repeated or prolonged courses of antibiotics have proved to be effective in controlling clinical signs.
Don’t Miss: Is My Cat Trying To Kill Me
My Cat Is Sneezing A Lot Viral Fungal Or Bacterial Infections
If you suspect a bacterial, fungal, or viral infection, its time to start fighting it. To start treatment, you need to know what infection it is. Sadly, there are dozens of possible guilty parties:
- Feline calicivirus
- The Feline herpes virus
- Mycoplasma
- Chlamydia
The good news is that many of these illnesses are preventable. There are vaccines out there that protect young kittens from ever getting these nasty infections.
Audience: Executive Leadership Foster Caregivers Public Shelter/rescue Staff & Volunteers Veterinary Team
If your cat’s sneezing and/or nasal discharge is mild and he/she has a normal appetite and energy level, it is okay to monitor him/her for the first couple of days. Keeping your cat separate from other cats is recommended until a veterinarian gives the okay, since he/she may have a contagious upper respiratory infection.
You May Like: What Did Lovecraft Name His Cat
Respiratory Infections Are The Primary Cause Of Sneezing
Unrelieved feline sneezing is often the result of an infection. Infections may be bacterial, fungal, or viral. Cats do not get infections from you, nor are their infections passed on to you. Their symptoms, however, are often the same as human symptoms.
As well as sneezing, symptoms of a respiratory infection include:
Coughing
How Are Uris Treated
Just like your human cold, theres no cure, antidote or medication for a feline URI. Treatment for a cat cold is really just tender loving care at home! Most of the time, this will go away in approximately a week.2 That said, if it doesnt, or if your cat isnt eating for more than 2-3 days, get to a veterinarian as some cats may need to be hospitalized for more intensive care.
Recommended Reading: How To Draw Pete The Cat Step By Step
Should You Be Worried
When your cat starts sneezes continually, its only natural to wonder if there is something to be concerned about. By and large, if your cat sneezes once or twice over the course of a few days, its nothing to be worried about. If you see them sneeze three or four times in a row in an isolated occurrence, thats probably fine, too. If your cat continues to sneeze repeatedly over the course of a few days, you should start paying closer attention to the duration and intensity of the episodes. If the sneezing fits persist longer than two or three days, its time to schedule a vet appointment.
Although inflammation and foreign materials are the most common reasons your cat may be sneezing consistently, theyre not the only culprits. Serious viral infections and even dental disease can cause sneezing, as well. Youll want to have these diagnosed as early as possible for your cats health and comfort.
If your cat doesnt appear to be in any pain or discomfort as a result of their sneezing, it might be tempting to let a vet appointment slide. However, if you notice that your cat is overly lethargic, that theyre exhibiting strange litter box habits or that theyre eating less, you could have a larger problem on your hands. You should immediately contact the vet if you spot any of the following symptoms:
- Loss of appetite
- Increase in frequency of sneezes
- Weight loss
- Vomiting or diarrhea
When To Contact Your Vet
Sneezing from time to time is nothing to worry about, but you should contact your vet if your cat starts sneezing often.
Contact your vet for an urgent appointment if your cat cant stop sneezing, sneezes blood or seems painful.
Consider insuring your cat as soon as you get them, before any signs of illness start. This will ensure you have all the support you need to care for them.
Recommended Reading: What Are Cat Years Compared To Human Years