Cats can sneeze for a variety of reasons. Sneezing is a natural way for cats to clear their nasal passages of irritants like dust or pollen. However, frequent sneezing can also be a sign of an upper respiratory infection (URI) which requires veterinary attention. In this article we talk about Why Do Cats Sneeze Understanding Respiratory Infections And When To See A Vet.
Why Do Cats Sneeze?
Occasional sneezing is normal for cats. They have sensitive nasal passages and sneeze as a way to clear out dust, pollen, or other airborne particles. Some other reasons your cat might sneeze include:
– Irritation from litter dust or air fresheners
– Getting water up their nose while drinking or playing
– Nasal mites
– Foreign object stuck in the nose
– Allergies
If the sneezing is infrequent, the cat otherwise acts normal, and the nasal discharge is clear, it’s likely nothing to worry about. But if sneezing becomes chronic along with other symptoms, your cat may have an upper respiratory tract infection.
Upper Respiratory Infections in Cats
Upper respiratory infections (URIs) are common in cats. The most well-known is the feline herpesvirus (FHV-1), which tends to cause lifelong infections with occasional flare-ups when a cat is stressed. Other viral and bacterial organisms can also cause URIs including feline calicivirus, Chlamydophila felis, and Bordetella bronchiseptica.
URIs affect the sinuses, throat, windpipe, and bronchi. The infection causes inflammation and excess mucus production. Symptoms of an URI can include:
– Sneezing
– Runny nose and nasal congestion
– Watery eyes
– Ulcers on the tongue, mouth, or nose
– Coughing
– Fever
– Loss of appetite
– Lethargy
In kittens, URIs can progress rapidly so veterinary care is crucial. The infection makes them vulnerable to pneumonia which can be fatal. Even adult cats can decline and need supportive care if URIs are left untreated.
Diagnosing Upper Respiratory Infections in Cats
Your veterinarian will start with a physical exam, listening to your cat’s breathing with a stethoscope. They will also ask about your cat’s vaccination status and medical history, especially previous URI symptoms.
From there, tests help confirm diagnosis:
– Nasal swab – Samples mucus secretions to identify organisms.
– Blood work – Checks white blood cell count and antibody levels.
– X-rays or ultrasound – Evaluates sinus issues or pneumonia.
Treatment Options for Upper Respiratory Infections
Treatment focuses on both managing symptoms and fighting the underlying infection. Your vet may recommend:
– Antibiotics – Prescribed for bacterial infections.
– Antiviral medication – Used for herpesvirus or calicivirus flareups.
– Bronchodilators or corticosteroids – Alleviates airway inflammation.
– Nebulization – Delivers medications via moist air to open airways.
– Supportive care – Fluids, nutritional support, and TLC!
Cats with chronic URIs may need periodic medication to suppress flareups. Keeping your cat’s environment clean, stress-free and avoiding multi-cat households can also help prevent recurrent infections.
In severe cases with high fever and lethargy, hospitalization for oxygen therapy and injectable medication may be necessary. Pneumonia also warrants aggressive treatment.
When to See the Vet for Sneezing and Respiratory Infections
Occasional sneezing isn’t concerning. But if your cat shows any of the following, make an appointment with your veterinarian:
– Sustained sneezing, coughing, or audible breathing
– Thick nasal discharge, especially if yellow or green
– Squinty eyes or reddened conjunctivae
– Loss of appetite or energy
– Hiding and anti-social behavior
– Fever
– Not improving after 72 hours
Kittens with these symptoms should see a vet immediately as URIs can rapidly progress in young cats. Seek emergency care if your cat is struggling heavily to breathe with an extended neck and abdominal effort. This is a life-threatening emergency.
Preventing Upper Respiratory Infections
While tricky to prevent completely, you can reduce your cat’s URI risk by:
– Keeping them current on vaccines like FVRCP
– Eliminating stress
– Avoiding exposure to infected cats
– Keeping the litter box clean
– Using dust-free, scent-free litter
– Changing furnace and AC filters regularly
– Keeping humidity below 50%
Cats will sneeze every so often to clear their noses. But frequent sneezing with other symptoms could mean it’s time for your kitty to see the vet. Respiratory infections should never go unchecked in cats. Pay attention for signs of illness and call your veterinarian if concerned. With proper treatment, your sneezy cat will be back to their happy, healthy self in no time! I sincerely hope you find this “Why Do Cats Sneeze Understanding Respiratory Infections And When To See A Vet” article helpful.