My cat is sneezing, what's wrong? - briefly
If your cat is sneezing, it could be due to an upper respiratory infection or allergies. Consult your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
My cat is sneezing, what's wrong? - in detail
If your cat is sneezing, it could be due to several reasons ranging from minor irritants to more serious health issues. Here are some possible causes and what you should do about them:
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Allergies or Irritants: Cats can be allergic to various substances such as dust, pollen, or certain types of litter. If your cat's sneezing is accompanied by watery eyes or a runny nose, it might be due to an allergy. To address this, try changing the litter, using a HEPA air filter, or removing any potential allergens from your home.
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Infections: Respiratory infections are common in cats and can cause sneezing. These can be viral (like feline herpesvirus or calicivirus) or bacterial (such as Bordetella or Chlamydophila). If your cat has a fever, lethargy, or reduced appetite along with sneezing, it could indicate an infection. In this case, you should consult your veterinarian, who may prescribe antibiotics if the infection is bacterial.
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Dental Issues: Believe it or not, dental problems can cause sneezing in cats. An abscessed tooth or other oral issues can lead to drainage into the nasal passages, causing sneezing. If your cat's breath smells bad or you notice drooling or pawing at the mouth, make an appointment with your vet to check for dental problems.
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Foreign Bodies: Sometimes, cats can inhale foreign objects like grass, dust, or even pieces of their food, which can cause sneezing and other respiratory symptoms. If you suspect this is the case, try to observe your cat closely and remove any potential irritants from its environment.
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Chronic Conditions: Certain chronic conditions, such as asthma or allergic bronchitis, can also cause sneezing in cats. These conditions require long-term management, often involving medications like corticosteroids or bronchodilators. If your cat's sneezing is persistent and doesn't seem to be caused by any of the above factors, it might be worth discussing these possibilities with your vet.
Regardless of the cause, if your cat's sneezing is accompanied by other symptoms like difficulty breathing, lethargy, or loss of appetite, you should seek veterinary care immediately. It's always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your pet's health.