Cat Sneezing
Cat
Occasional sneezing in cats is normal, but persistent or frequent sneezing often indicates an upper respiratory infection or allergy. Cat sneezing can be accompanied by nasal discharge, eye discharge, or other symptoms that help pinpoint the cause.
Possible Causes
- Upper respiratory infection (feline herpesvirus or calicivirus)
- Bacterial infection secondary to a viral URI
- Environmental allergies (dust, pollen, cleaning products)
- Nasal polyps or tumors
- Dental disease (tooth root abscess draining into nasal cavity)
- Foreign body in the nasal passage (blade of grass, seed)
- Fungal infection (cryptococcus)
- Irritants (cigarette smoke, strong perfume, litter dust)
- Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) or feline leukemia (FeLV)
- Chronic rhinitis or sinusitis
When to See a VetImportant
Seek veterinary care if any of the following apply:
- Sneezing is persistent and lasts more than a few days
- Nasal discharge is thick, colored (yellow/green), or bloody
- Your cat also has watery or goopy eyes
- Your cat is lethargic, not eating, or has a fever
- Sneezing is accompanied by mouth breathing or open-mouth breathing
- Your cat is a kitten or has a weakened immune system
- There is facial swelling or asymmetry around the nose
First Aid TipsHome Care
These tips can help while you monitor the situation or wait for your vet appointment:
- Gently wipe nasal discharge with a warm, damp cloth
- Use a humidifier or bring your cat into a steamy bathroom to help clear nasal passages
- Ensure your cat is eating — warm food to enhance aroma if needed
- Switch to a low-dust cat litter
- Remove air fresheners, scented candles, and other potential irritants
- Keep your cat isolated from other cats if an infection is suspected
Related Symptoms
Breeds Commonly Affected
Is this an emergency?
If your pet is in severe distress, call your vet or an emergency animal hospital immediately. For poisoning emergencies, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
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