Why Do Cats Sneeze?

Sneezing in cats is an explosive ejection of air via the nose and mouth - frequently the body's response to irritants in the nasal passages. Cats may sneeze in response to excitement or movement.

Normal Sneezing

Just like humans, cats can sometimes just sneeze without any real reason. If your cat sneezes once and then doesn’t again for weeks or even months, there’s nothing to worry about; this is perfectly normal sneezing.

Normal sneezing can be caused by pollutants that your cat often sniffs outdoors. It can also be caused by dust, pollen or strong smells spreading in its environment.

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The most common feature of normal sneezing is it is always occasional, not chronic.

Trouble sneezing

If your cat keeps on sneezing, again and again, following some underlying respiratory tract disease, you need to call your VET for the proper medical examination.

Symptoms of trouble sneezing

Chronic upper respiratory tract disorders in cats have symptoms similar to those of normal respiratory irritations, but they last for weeks or months if not treated.

Chronic rhinitis, for example, can cause persistent bacterial infections, worsening the symptoms.

Among these signs are:

• Fits of sneezing

• Runny, stuffy nose

• Nasal discharge is thick and yellow.

• Appetite loss

• Drooling and swallowing difficulties

• Eye discharge in one or both eyes

Cats that have recovered from acute viral infections, such as feline calicivirus and feline herpesvirus, are more prone to chronic upper respiratory diseases, with symptoms that stay continuously or intermittently.

They are also more susceptible to virus reactivation due to stress, illness, or immunosuppression.

Potential Causes of trouble sneezing

All the following are examples of possible irritants or allergens

• Tobacco smoke

• Perfume

• Sprays for pests

• Cat litter, particularly dust-producing varieties

• Cleaning solutions

• Candles

• Dust Pollen

Other infectious causes:

Feline herpes virus

Feline herpes virus is the most frequent viral infection that causes sneezing in cats. Cats acquire herpes through contact with other infected cats. Stress can trigger a flare-up and spread the disease to other cats.

Calicivirus

This virus is highly infectious among cats. The most frequent symptom is mouth ulcers and it also can affect the respiratory system, especially the lungs causing pneumonia and sneezing.

Chlamydia

chlamydia commonly causes an eye infection with mild to severe sneezing.

Mycoplasma

It also irritates respiratory membranes causing sneezing.

Nasal and Sinus Disorders

Inflammatory disorders such as rhinitis and sinusitis can also affect cats. Rhinitis is an infection of the mucous membranes of the nose, commonly known as a "stuffy nose," while sinusitis is an inflammation of the sinus lining. Both these conditions are potent causes of sneezing.

These two disorders, known as "rhinosinusitis" in cats, are typical consequences of upper respiratory infections.

Treatment of sneezing

Treatment for upper respiratory infections is determined by the severity of the infection. In instances with typically minor symptoms, URIs can resolve on their own within a few weeks. Additional therapy may be required in other circumstances, such as:

• Antiviral or antibiotic drugs

• Drops for the eyes or nose

• Steroids

In severe situations, hospitalization may be required for more intense care, such as IV fluids and nutritional assistance.

Upper respiratory infections, if left untreated, can lead to serious illnesses such as pneumonia, persistent breathing problems, and even blindness.

If you believe your cat has an upper respiratory infection, take the following actions right once to provide relief:

• Clean any discharge from your cat's nose and face on a regular basis using a warm, moist cloth.

• Warm up some canned food and try to convince your cat to eat it.

• Make certain that your cat has lots of fresh water.

• Use a humidifier to help keep your cat's coat moist.