Cat Sneezing: Why is my cat sneezing a lot?

Ever noticed your cats sneezing a lot? Sometimes we, the pet parents, find the sneezing of our little bundle of joy cute, just like their antics, but this symptom is something that shouldn’t be ignored or taken lightly, as it is a matter of their health. In this blog, why is my cat sneezing a lot? We will not only uncover what does it mean when a cat sneezes a lot but also sneezing symptoms with related issues and the helpful home remedies for cat sneezing.

So, let’s dive in and find out the answer to “why is my cat sneezing a lot?”

Is it normal for cats to sneeze? Do cats sneeze?

Is it normal for cats to sneeze

Yes, cat sneezing is completely normal. Just like humans, cat sneezing is also natural. sneeze here, and there is usually nothing to worry about, but if the sneezing persists, then it can be a symptom of any underlying health issue.

Why is my cat sneezing a lot?

cat allergies

Are you wondering, “What causes a cat to sneeze a lot?" Here are some common reasons why your cat might be sneezing a lot:

1. Respiratory infections:

The most common cause of sneezing in cats can be respiratory infection, which is similar to the common cold in humans. These infections are usually viral and are caused by feline herpesvirus (FHV) and feline calicivirus (FCV). Both of these viruses can cause sneezing, nasal congestion, and discharge with other symptoms like:

  • Watery eyes
  • Runny nose
  • Fever
  • Loss of appetite
  • Fatigue

2. Cat allergies sneezing:

Cats can also suffer from allergies, and sneezing is a common symptom. Allergies in cats are seasonal, in case you suspect cat allergies, make sure the environment is clean. They can get allergic to the following things:

  • Dust mites
  • Pollen
  • Mold
  • Cigarette smoke
  • Cleaning products
  • Perfumes 
  • Scented candles

3.  Irritants:

Cats have extremely sensitive noses and they can be easily irritated by strong smells and chemicals. This symptom if caused by irritants is short-lived. Remove the irritants to make the sneezing stop and remember to use pet-safe cleaning products. Common irritants that may cause your cat to sneeze include:

  • Household cleaners
  • Air fresheners
  • Perfumes
  • Cigarette smoke
  • Dust or small debris

4. Objects in the nose:

Sneezing is a natural reflex if anything is stuck in the nasal passage. This applies to our pets as well. So, objects like dust, hair and grass can be a reason for a sneezing cat if inhaled. Continuous and violent sneezing may require a veterinarian’s help, as in some cases the stuck object needs to be removed professionally.

5. Dental problems:

As the roots of the cat’s teeth are located near the nasal passages, an infection in teeth can spread to the sinuses. Check for the symptoms like bad breath, drooling, or difficulty eating, if these symptoms are seen with a sneezing cat, then dental problems can be the cause of it.

Common Cat Sneezing Symptoms and Related Issues

 

Symptoms

Why do cats sneeze?

Recommended Action

Cat sneezing a lot with snot

Respiratory infection, allergies, nasal congestion

Consult a vet for possible respiratory infections or allergies.

Cat sneezing a lot mucus

Respiratory infection & dental disease

Seek veterinary care to identify the cause.

Cat reverse sneezing

Irritants, allergies, foreign object in nose, respiratory infection

If infrequent, it's usually harmless. If frequent or prolonged, consult a vet.

Cat sneezing blood

Nasal trauma, foreign object in nose, tumors, severe infection

Immediate veterinarian care is needed.

Cat sneezing and coughing

Respiratory infection, asthma, allergies, heart disease

A vet assessment is necessary to rule out the causes.

Cat sneezing and watery eyes

Respiratory infection, conjunctivitis, allergies

Consult a vet for treatment

Cat sneezing and eye discharge

Respiratory infection, feline herpesvirus, feline calicivirus, conjunctivitis

Visit a vet for antiviral medications, antibiotics, and eye drops. Keep the eyes clean to avoid irritation. 

Cat sneezing and vomiting

Severe respiratory infection, foreign object in nose, gastrointestinal distress

Seek immediate veterinary care.

 

How to help a sneezing cat?

How to help a sneezing cat
  • Monitor for other symptoms: If your cat sneezes a lot, monitor it for other symptoms such as runny nose, watery eyes, coughing, or lethargy.
  • Check for irritants: Check for their environment and make sure there are no irritants. Also, try to reduce their exposure to irritants.
  • Humidify the air: Humid air can moisten your cat’s nasal passages while reducing sneezes. So, if you observe the cat sneezing a lot with no other symptoms, then using a humidifier can be a solution.
  • Ensure clean environment: Keep the environment clean to ensure there are no allergens or irritants. 
  • Consider an allergy check: Cats can be allergic to certain foods, plants, or environmental factors. Find the cause of their allergy and eliminate them.
  • Visit the vet: If sneezing is accompanied by other symptoms or persists for more than a few days, it's best to consult a vet.

Sneezing cat remedy

Sneezing cat remedy

The following are the sneezing cats treatments or things you can do at home to ease the sneezing in your cats:

⇒ Steam treatment

⇒ Remove irritants

⇒ Hydration

⇒ Keep your cat indoors

⇒ Wipe your cat’s face

How to make a cat sneeze?

Sometimes ‘achoo’ sometimes ‘kaf-chh’, our adorable furballs’s sneezing can be an alarming situation for us. But there are many times where we feel the need to sneeze, especially when something is stuck in their nose. Here’s how to make a cat sneeze:

1. Touch the area just inside your cat's nostrils with soft and clean tissue.

2. Introducing mild and strong scents can trigger a sneeze. However, be cautious with this method.

 

Summing Up!

So, if you are someone who is wondering ‘why my cat is sneezing a lot’ or ‘why do cats sneeze a lot’, this guide answers all your query. Whatever the symptom of ‘my cat sneezes a lot’, if they persist, then it is important to take the help of a vet.

Remember, next time if your cat keeps sneezing, don’t ignore the symptoms!

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October 01, 2024