Cat Sneezing

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Cat Sneezing

by Steph
(PA)

photography by Zanastardust

Hello,

I have a 2-year-old female cat. She has been sneezing with increasing frequency, but shows no other signs of sickness. Her behavior, bodily functions, and daily routine are normal. Could she have an allergy to something?

Hi, Steph,

When cats have an allergic reaction to something, it most often is manifested in their skin. They may be itchy, lick and scratch their fur off, and become quite miserable.

When a cat is sneezing more than an occasional sneeze from a bit of dust perhaps, it is a sign they have an upper respiratory infection. The same thing we call a "cold".

If it is getting more frequent or if your kitty becomes lethargic or has decreased appetite or nasal or ocular discharge, a vet visit is in order. Cats frequently develop secondary bacterial infections when they have an upper respiratory virus. Therefore, it is not unusual for a cat that has a cold to have to go to the vet. She may need antibiotics and possibly appetite stimulants.

Don't hesitate to make that vet appointment if her sneezing doesn't go away soon or if she loses her appetite or energy.

Thanks for writing.
Dr. Neely

Comments for
Cat Sneezing

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Mar 07, 2011

sneezing cats - could be herpes
by: Anonymous

I have a cat that off an on has had respiratory issues and sneezing since birth. It was suggested recently by a vet to have him get Lysine treats daily (they sell them at on-line pet stores such as EntirelyPets.com). Since he's been taking them, he has been completely sneeze free and has had no more respiratory issues at all. I suggest the chewable treats, they are expensive, but last quite a while. The non-chewable ones are very large and hard I thought. My cat loves them both though. Having him on these has been a huge relief, as his sneezing/respiratory issues would often progress into eye issues also before he could easily get lysine in treat form regularly. Otherwise, you have to crush lysine pills into food, which is cheaper, but more inconvenient. I also until recently didn't realize that giving to him daily would prevent the problems, I had thought I was to give him Lysine after he had symptoms. Different vet gave me better advice and told me about the Lysine in treat form. Good luck.

Nov 27, 2008

12 yr old cat w/ asymptomatic sneezing
by: Anonymous

My 12 year old cat, who is on HCM meds, starting sneezing about 3 weeks ago. No other symptoms. He will sneeze around 5 times at a time, several times a day. No runny-ness anywhere, appetite fine. I had visited my local shelter right before that, but his littermate sister is fine, and she has a chronically low white count! They are indoor cats and are not vaccinnated for anything. I take him to the Massachusetts SPCA teaching hospital (Angell Memorial) every 6 months for an ultrasound on his heart and blood work, and he never gets sneezy after going there, or even to my local vet. It's Thanksgiving weekend, of course, so no one is around. Thanks for any help!
melinda penrose and Moliere

Hi, I'm sorry I didn't get back to you. The amount of mail I receive is staggering. I would have advised you to just keep a very close eye on your kitty since he had no other symptoms. I'd love to hear back regarding his condition.

Again, I apologise. I have made several different attempts to resolve the problem of too many questions to answer and still haven't found the perfect solution.

Best,
Dr. Neely

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