Why Does My Cat Keep Sneezing? When to Worry and What to Do

Cats, like humans, can sneeze for various reasons, most of which are harmless. However, if your cat's sneezing becomes frequent or persistent, it’s important to understand the possible causes and know when a vet consultation is necessary to ensure your feline friend stays healthy.

Common Causes of Sneezing in Cats

Sneezing in cats often arises from irritation or infections affecting the upper respiratory system. Here are some frequent causes your vet might consider:

• Upper respiratory infections: Viral or bacterial infections such as feline herpesvirus or calicivirus commonly cause sneezing accompanied by nasal discharge and lethargy.
• Allergies: Cats may develop allergic rhinitis triggered by environmental factors like dust, pollen, smoke, or harsh cleaning products.
• Foreign objects: Small particles like grass seeds or dust can become lodged in or irritate the nasal passages, leading to sneezing as the cat tries to expel them.
• Dental problems: Dental disease or tooth abscesses can inflame nasal tissues, resulting in sneezing and often bad breath or drooling.
• Chronic conditions: Conditions like chronic rhinitis or nasal polyps may cause ongoing sneezing and require veterinary attention.

Rare but serious causes include feline leukaemia, immunodeficiency virus, and oral cancers, which your vet will rule out during examination.

Recognising When Sneezing is a Concern

Your instincts as a cat owner are vital. Seek veterinary advice if you notice:

• Persistent or frequent sneezing lasting more than a few days.
• Nasal discharge that is yellow, green, bloody, or thick.
• Additional symptoms such as lethargy, fever, loss of appetite, coughing, pawing at the face, or bad breath.
• Signs of respiratory distress like difficulty breathing or wheezing.
• Swelling or sores around the mouth or face.

These symptoms could indicate infections, foreign bodies, allergies, or dental diseases requiring prompt treatment.

How to Help Your Cat at Home

While monitoring your cat, you can reduce irritation by:

• Using dust-free, low-dust cat litters and switching brands if sneezing persists.
• Cleaning your home frequently with pet-friendly products to reduce allergens.
• Avoiding scented candles and air fresheners that may irritate nasal passages.
• Ensuring that wood-burning stoves or fireplaces are well ventilated to prevent smoke exposure.

Regular vacuuming helps minimise dust, dander, and hair, benefiting both your cat and your family’s health.

Step-by-Step: What To Do If Your Cat Keeps Sneezing

Step 1: Observe Your Cat's Behaviour

Note how often your cat sneezes and whether there are accompanying symptoms like discharge, lethargy, or eating changes. Document any unusual behaviour to share with your vet.

Step 2: Maintain a Clean Environment

Switch to dust-free cat litter and use hypoallergenic cleaning products. Minimise exposure to smoke or strong scents.

Step 3: Schedule a Vet Visit When Necessary

If sneezing persists or your cat shows worrying symptoms, contact your vet promptly. Early diagnosis ensures the best outcomes.

Step 4: Follow Veterinary Advice and Treatment

Your vet may recommend treatments such as antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medication, or dental care depending on the diagnosis. Follow instructions carefully and monitor your cat’s progress.

Frequently Asked Question: Why Does My Cat Keep Sneezing?

Quick Answer: Cats sneeze due to irritation, infections, allergies, or foreign bodies in the nose. Persistent sneezing with other symptoms warrants veterinary examination.

In-depth, sneezing is a reflex that helps clear the nasal passages from irritants or pathogens. Occasional sneezing is normal; however, when it is frequent or accompanied by nasal discharge, lethargy, or breathing difficulties, it may signal infections such as upper respiratory viruses, allergies to environmental triggers, dental disease, or lodged foreign objects. If you notice such signs, consulting your vet is essential to obtain the right treatment and prevent complications.

Conclusion

While occasional sneezing in cats is usually not a cause for concern, persistent or frequent sneezing, especially with additional symptoms, should never be ignored. Responsible cat owners should observe their pets closely, make environmental adjustments to reduce irritants, and seek veterinary care promptly when necessary. This approach helps ensure your cat remains happy, comfortable, and healthy.