Why does the cat sneeze and have purulent eyes? - briefly
Sneezing in cats can be a sign of an upper respiratory infection or allergies. Purulent eyes, characterized by yellowish-green discharge, typically indicate a bacterial infection, often secondary to viral infections like feline herpesvirus or calicivirus.
Why does the cat sneeze and have purulent eyes? - in detail
The symptoms of sneezing and purulent eyes in cats can be attributed to several underlying conditions, each requiring prompt veterinary attention.
Rhinitis and Sinusitis: These are common causes of sneezing and eye discharge in cats. Rhinitis refers to inflammation of the nasal passages, while sinusitis affects the sinuses. Both conditions can lead to excessive mucus production, causing sneezing and drainage into the eyes, resulting in a purulent discharge. The causes can range from viral or bacterial infections to allergies or foreign bodies lodged in the nasal passages.
Feline Herpesvirus (FHV): This is one of the most common viral infections in cats, often leading to chronic sneezing and eye issues. FHV can cause conjunctivitis, resulting in eye discharge that may become purulent if a secondary bacterial infection develops. While there's no cure for FHV, antiviral medications and supportive care can help manage symptoms.
Feline Calicivirus (FCV): Another common viral infection in cats, FCV can cause upper respiratory tract issues, including sneezing and eye discharge. Similar to FHV, a secondary bacterial infection can lead to purulent eye discharge. Vaccines are available for both FHV and FCV, which can help prevent or reduce the severity of these infections.
Bacterial Infections: Bacteria such as Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, and Pasteurella multocida can cause infections in the respiratory tract and eyes, leading to sneezing and purulent eye discharge. These infections often require antibiotic treatment prescribed by a veterinarian.
Allergies: Allergic reactions in cats can also result in sneezing and eye discharge. Common allergens include pollen, dust mites, and certain foods. If an allergy is suspected, your vet may recommend allergy testing and appropriate treatment options.
Dental Disease: In some cases, dental issues such as tooth root abscesses can cause sneezing and purulent eye discharge due to the close proximity of the teeth to the sinuses. If dental disease is suspected, a thorough dental examination and possible dental surgery may be necessary.
Foreign Bodies: Small objects or debris lodged in the nasal passages can also cause sneezing and eye discharge. If your cat has recently been exposed to small particles or foreign bodies, this could be the culprit.
To determine the exact cause of your cat's symptoms, a thorough veterinary examination is essential. This may include physical examinations, blood tests, cultures, and sometimes imaging studies like X-rays or CT scans. Based on the findings, your vet will recommend an appropriate course of treatment to alleviate your cat's discomfort and resolve the underlying issue.