Sneezing in cats

Sneezing in cats is a common symptom that can result from various causes affecting the nasal
passages, sinuses, or upper respiratory tract. While occasional sneezing may be harmless,
persistent or severe sneezing warrants veterinary evaluation.
Causes of Sneezing in Cats
1. Infectious Causes:
– Viral infections:** Feline herpesvirus (FHV-1), calicivirus (most common)
– Bacterial infections:** Bordetella, Chlamydia, Mycoplasma
– Fungal infections: Cryptococcus (especially in endemic areas)
2. Allergies and Environmental Irritants:
– Pollen, dust, mold, cigarette smoke
– Perfumes, cleaning chemicals
– Pollens or grasses
3. Foreign Bodies:
– Grass, dust, or small objects lodged in nasal passages
4. Dental Disease:
– Dental abscesses or advanced periodontal disease can cause nasal discharge and sneezing
5. Structural Abnormalities:
– Congenital deformities or tumors affecting nasal passages
6. Other causes:
– Nasal polyps or tumors
– Sinusitis (sinus infection)
– Trauma or injury to the face
Signs and When to Seek Veterinary Care
– Frequent or persistent sneezing lasting more than a few days
– Discharge from the nose (clear, colored, or blood-tinged)
– Swelling around the face or nose
– Difficulty breathing or noisy breathing
– Loss of appetite or lethargy
– Ulcers or bleeding in the mouth or nose

Diagnostic Approach
– Physical exam, including nasal inspection
– Nasal or oropharyngeal swabs for infectious agents PCR testing.

– Blood tests and imaging (X-rays, CT) for tumors, polyps, or structural abnormalities
– Rhinoscopy or endoscopy in some cases

Treatment
– Supportive care: humidified environment, nasal saline sprays
– Antibiotics if infection diagnosed
– Anti-inflammatory medications for allergic or inflammatory causes
– Removal of foreign bodies or polyps via surgical procedures
– Managing underlying allergies or dental issues

Prevention & Management
– Keep indoors during high pollen seasons if allergy-prone
– Maintain good nasal and oral hygiene
– Minimize exposure to smoke or strong chemicals
– Regular veterinary check-ups for recurrent or severe cases