A cat sneezing has got to be one of the cutest things ever. It can turn your little kitty into (even more) of a heart melter.
Generally, there is nothing to worry about; just like us cats also randomly sneeze. This is usually just from a tickle in the nasal passage.
However, there are some signs you need to watch out for that can mean your cute little feline friend may have something a little more serious going on:
• Smelly breath
• A cough
• Mucus
• Coughing blood
• Discharge from eyes
• Re occurring sneezing fits
If your cat shows any of the signs above you should consult your vet ASAP especially if your doing a pet sitting exchange. Your little guy might have a bit more going on that just an adorable little sneezing fit.
Why is My Cat Sneezing?
Tooth Trouble
Just like humans cats teeth need looking after. If you notice abnormally smelly breath this may be a sign of a dental disease.
Tooth infections, gum disease & dental abscesses are very bad news for cats. Infections can cause bacteria to grow in the nasal sinus; this can cause inflammation and cat sneezing.
If you notice bad breath (aside from that delicious cat food smell) or discomfort while your cat is eating, get in touch with your vet right away and discuss your options.
Respiratory Infections
Another common cause of sneezing is associated with a respiratory infection, most often a viral infection. That’s right, our feline friends can get colds too!
Likely infectious diseases include:
- Cat Herpes Virus
- Calicivirus
- Chlamydia Infection
- Bacterial infections such as Mycoplasma
Some signs to watch our for are:
- Excessive sneezing
- Discharge from the eyes
- An aggressive cough
Fungal infections are less common in cats than in humans, however, they can cause big problems for felines with inflammation of the nasal passage and big discomfort. All of these cases will require a trip to the vet and a course of antibiotics.
Chemicals
Cats have sensitive noses. Chemicals in the air such as tobacco smoke, perfume, cleaning products & other foreign household chemicals can cause inflammation and a cat sneezing fit.
This is the natural way for the cat to rid itself of the foreign irritation. Generally, it’s not a big deal and the best cure is to isolate the chemical to stop your cat sneezing.
Foreign Objects
Chances are your cat is a very active little guy and loves poking his head around in the yard. This is prime territory for foreign objects to find their way into your cat’s nose. Things like dust, grass, sand etc are very common.
Usually, your cat will sneeze and dislodge anything that has made its way in. If something was lodged in there be sure to check your cat has sneezed everything out. Anything that is remaining in there could turn into a nasal infection. If you have any doubts or concerns consult your vet.
Allergies
Allergies are less common in cats than they are in humans, but still not unheard of. Allergies can be broken down into three main groups. Food, environment and flea allergies. Environment allergies are the same as what causes those aggravating hay-fever-symptoms in humans and can cause big discomfort for your feline friend.
Flea allergies are the most common in cats and are caused by fleas, to be more specific the fleas spit. (Eww) Flea allergies cause huge itching & discomfort in your cat and can be fixed with a trip to the vet and some flea treatment.
Food allergies are most commonly caused by lamb, beef, seafood, corn, dairy products and some wheat products. Obviously, these can differ from cat to cat and if you have any queries you would be best to speak with your vet.
Potential symptoms of a cat allergy can be:
- Vomiting or diarrhoea
- Itchy, discharging eyes
- Snoring
- Sensitive or swollen paws
- Coughing
- Wheezing
- Sneezing
- Paw chewing or swollen, sensitive paws
Potential causes of a cat allergy:
- Cleaning products
- Some cat litters
- Pollen, plants, grass
- Mold, mildew
- Perfume & Cologne
- Foods
- Prescription drugs
The best fix is to isolate your cat from the route of the reaction. As always consult your vet if you have any concerns (especially with fleas) and they will get your little guy purring again in no time.
Intranasal vaccines
If your cat has recently been vaccinated it is possible that they will get a case of the sneezes for a couple of days.
This is nothing to worry about and quite normal. Do monitor your cat sneezing for a couple and days and if they do persist (or get worse) be sure to contact your vet for best advice.
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