Home » Symptoms » Cat Symptoms A-Z » Sneezing

Sneezing in cats

Sneezing in cats is a sudden, forceful expulsion of air through the nose, and sometimes the mouth, triggered by irritation of the nasal mucosa. It is a natural reflex that serves to remove foreign objects or irritants from the airways.

Can Occur with the Following Diseases:

Basics and possible causes

Sneezing is a normal reflex that occurs in all mammals, including cats. The nasal mucosa is very sensitive and can be irritated by a variety of factors. These include physical irritation from foreign bodies, chemical irritants such as smoke or perfume, or allergic reactions. Sneezing can also be triggered by upper respiratory infections.

Infections are a common cause of sneezing in cats. Viral infections such as feline herpesvirus or feline calicivirus are particularly common. In addition to sneezing, these viruses can also lead to other symptoms such as ocular inflammation and fever. Bacterial infections, such as those caused by Bordetella bronchiseptica or Mycoplasma, are also possible, but less common.

Allergies can also cause sneezing in cats. Allergens such as pollen, dust, or certain foods can trigger an allergic reaction in sensitive cats. This reaction can range from mild sneezing to more severe respiratory distress. Chronic rhinitis or nasal polyps can also cause recurrent sneezing.

In some cases, sneezing can also be caused by structural problems in the cat’s airways, such as nasal polyps or tumors. Such causes are usually less common but should be considered if the sneezing is persistent and no other cause can be found.

Typical accompanying symptoms

Nasal discharge: A common accompanying symptom of sneezing is nasal discharge, which can be clear, yellowish, or greenish. The color and consistency of the discharge can provide clues as to the cause, such as whether it is an infection.
Eye discharge: Many upper respiratory infections that cause sneezing also lead to eye discharge. The eyes may be red and swollen, and crusts may form around the eyes.
Cough: Cough may occur with some respiratory infections or allergic reactions. This is especially common in infections that affect deeper areas of the respiratory tract.
Swelling of the lymph nodes: In the case of infections, the lymph nodes may swell, especially those near the neck. This is an indication that the cat’s immune system is active.
Fever: Fever is another symptom that can occur with infections. It can be noticeable through an increased body temperature, which can lead to lethargy and loss of appetite.
Loss of appetite: Cats that feel unwell tend to eat less. This can be caused by a stuffy nose or a weakened general condition.
Changes in behavior: A cat suffering from a respiratory disease may withdraw, be less active, or show signs of discomfort.

When to visit the vet?

A veterinary visit is urgently needed if your cat’s sneezing is accompanied by other more serious symptoms, such as persistent fever, severe nasal or eye discharge, loss of appetite, or lethargy. Such symptoms may indicate a more serious infection or other health condition that requires medical treatment.

If the sneezing persists or worsens over a longer period of time, a veterinarian should also be consulted. Chronic sneezing that does not improve may be a sign of an underlying chronic condition or structural defect that needs to be treated.

Also, if the cat shows difficulty breathing, a veterinarian should be consulted immediately. Respiratory distress is an emergency and requires immediate medical evaluation and treatment.

Symptom recognition for animal owners and veterinary diagnostic procedures

It can be helpful for the pet owner to observe the pattern and frequency of sneezing. Note whether there are specific triggers, such as certain times of day, places, or activities, when sneezing occurs. Other symptoms that occur along with the sneezing should also be closely observed and reported to the veterinarian.

The veterinarian will usually perform a thorough clinical examination to determine the cause of the sneezing. This includes examining the nose, eyes, and throat, as well as listening to the lungs. The veterinarian may also perform blood tests to diagnose infections or allergies. In some cases, X-rays or endoscopic examinations may be necessary to rule out structural problems in the airways.

If an infection is suspected, the veterinarian may take a nasal swab to identify the pathogen. This can help determine the appropriate treatment, such as antibiotics. If allergies are suspected, allergy tests or an elimination diet may be performed to identify the trigger.

What can pet owners do and professional therapy options

As a pet owner, you can take some measures to improve your cat’s well-being and relieve symptoms. Make sure the cat’s environment is free of irritants such as smoke, strong scents, or dust. A humidifier can help increase humidity and soothe your cat’s airways.

Make sure your cat drinks enough to keep the mucous membranes moist. Good hydration is especially important if the cat has nasal discharge or fever. If your cat has difficulty eating due to a stuffy nose, you can try offering her more fragrant or moist food to stimulate her appetite.

In some cases, it may be helpful to gently clean your cat’s nose with a damp cloth to remove crusts or discharge. This can make breathing easier and improve overall well-being. However, be careful to do this gently to avoid causing additional irritation.

If your cat is prescribed medication by the veterinarian, make sure you administer it as directed. This is crucial for effective treatment and a speedy recovery for your cat. If your cat’s symptoms do not improve or worsen despite these measures, it is important to consult the veterinarian again.

Outlook on current research

Current research is intensively investigating sneezing in cats to better understand the specific stimuli and factors that lead to this symptom. A significant area of research focuses on allergic reactions in cats, as sneezing can often be a symptom of allergies. Scientists are studying the mechanisms that cause the cat’s immune system to overreact to harmless substances such as pollen, dust, or mold. This involves examining both the genetic predisposition and the environmental influences that could contribute to the development of allergies.

Another area of research focuses on the role of infectious diseases in sneezing cats. Viruses such as feline herpesvirus or calicivirus are common causes of respiratory diseases that trigger sneezing. Researchers are working to develop new vaccines and antiviral therapies aimed at preventing the spread of these viruses or reducing the severity of symptoms. They are also investigating how these viruses affect the cat’s immune system and what long-term effects they may have on the cat’s health.

Research is also examining the role of environmental factors in sneezing in cats. Air pollution, secondhand smoke, and household chemicals are being explored as potential irritants that could worsen respiratory symptoms such as sneezing. Studies are focusing on how these factors affect cats and what measures owners can take to minimize their cats’ exposure to these irritants.

Finally, there is also research on the role of nutrition and general health in the prevalence of sneezing in cats. A healthy immune system is crucial for fighting off infections and minimizing allergic reactions. Therefore, research is being conducted on how certain nutrients and food additives can strengthen the immune system and potentially reduce the frequency and severity of sneezing.

Frequently asked questions

Is sneezing in cats always a cause for concern? Sneezing in cats is not always a cause for concern. Occasional sneezing can be normal, especially if it is triggered by dust or other harmless irritants. However, frequent or persistent sneezing may indicate an underlying problem and should be examined by a veterinarian.
What are common causes of sneezing in cats? Common causes of sneezing in cats include allergies, upper respiratory infections, environmental irritants such as smoke or perfumes, and foreign objects in the nasal passages. An accurate diagnosis can only be made by a veterinarian.
Can allergies cause sneezing in cats? Yes, allergies are a common cause of sneezing in cats. Cats can be allergic to various substances, including pollen, mold, dust mites, and certain foods or medications.
How can I tell if my cat is sneezing because of an infection? If sneezing is accompanied by other symptoms such as nasal discharge, eye discharge, fever, or decreased appetite, an infection may be present. A visit to the veterinarian is necessary to make an accurate diagnosis.
Can stress trigger sneezing in cats? Stress can indirectly trigger sneezing in cats. Stress weakens the immune system, making cats more susceptible to infections that can cause sneezing. Stress reduction can help improve the cat’s health.
Are there home remedies for sneezing in cats? While there are some home remedies, such as providing a steamy room, cat owners should be cautious and consult with a veterinarian before using home remedies. Improper treatment can worsen the situation.
Can a cat injure itself while sneezing? Cats usually do not injure themselves while sneezing. However, if the sneezing is violent or persistent, it can lead to irritation or damage to the nasal passages. A veterinarian should be consulted if the sneezing does not subside.
How can I help my cat sneeze less? To reduce sneezing, cat owners should keep their cat’s environment clean, minimize irritants, ventilate regularly, and ensure that the cat receives a balanced diet. Regular veterinary check-ups are also important.
Can sneezing in cats indicate a serious health problem? Yes, sneezing can indicate serious health problems such as infections, dental problems, or even tumors. If the sneezing is accompanied by other symptoms or lasts longer, a veterinarian should be consulted.
When should I take my cat to the vet if she is sneezing? A veterinary visit is advisable if the sneezing occurs frequently, is accompanied by other symptoms, lasts longer than a week, or the cat is obviously suffering from the sneezing. The veterinarian can determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment.

Are you unsure what is wrong with your pet? Feel free to use our symptom checker for more clarity.