Why Is My Cat Sneezing?

Upper respiratory infections are a leading cause of cat sneezing, especially in kittens and shelter cats. These infections can be caused by:

• Feline Herpes Virus: Highly contagious among cats, this virus causes sneezing, eye discharge, and nasal congestion. Stress can trigger flare-ups, but it’s not transmissible to humans. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms—learn more about feline herpes virus treatment here.
• Feline Calicivirus: Another contagious virus that often leads to mouth ulcers, sneezing, and even pneumonia in severe cases.
• Bacterial or Fungal Infections: Secondary infections (like chlamydia or bordetella) can complicate viral infections, causing thick nasal discharge or fever. Antibiotics are often needed to treat these.

Other serious infections, such as feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) or feline leukemia, may also weaken the immune system and increase sneezing risk.

Cats can be sensitive to everyday household substances. If your cat sneezes after certain activities, look for these potential irritants:

• Dust, Pollen, or Mold: Common allergens that irritate nasal passages.
• Household Products: Perfumes, cleaning agents, or scented candles can trigger sneezing.
• Cat Litter: Dust from clay or low-quality litters is a major culprit. Switching to safe cat litter options (like unscented, low-dust varieties) may help.
• Smoke: Cigarette or cigar smoke is a harsh irritant for cats’ sensitive airways.

Unlike humans, allergies are less common in cats, but if sneezing is paired with itchy skin or watery eyes, an allergic reaction might be the cause.

• Vaccine Reactions: Sneezing can occur 4–7 days after an intranasal vaccine, usually resolving within a few days.
• Nasal Blockages: Cats may sneeze to dislodge foreign objects (like grass or lint) from their nose.
• Dental Issues: Infections or inflammation in the teeth can lead to sinus drainage and sneezing.
• Cancer: Rare but possible, especially in older cats with persistent, unexplained sneezing.

Pay close attention if sneezing is accompanied by these red flags, which may indicate a more serious issue:

• Nasal Discharge: Thick, yellow/green discharge often signals a bacterial infection.
• Blood in Sneezes: Seek immediate vet care, as this can indicate injury, infection, or tumors.
• Eye Problems: Swelling, ulcers, or excessive discharge (common in herpes virus infections).
• Systemic Symptoms: Lethargy, fever, loss of appetite, weight loss, or difficulty breathing.
• Wheezing or Coughing: May point to lower respiratory issues like asthma or pneumonia.

If your cat shows any of these signs, don’t delay—schedule a vet visit to rule out serious conditions like cat upper respiratory infection symptoms.

• Occasional Sneezing: If your cat is otherwise active and healthy, monitor them at home. Keep them indoors and avoid known irritants.
• Persistent Sneezing: If sneezing lasts more than a few days or occurs in clusters, contact your vet.
• Severe Symptoms: Any sign of blood, difficulty breathing, or systemic illness requires urgent care.

Treatment depends on what’s triggering the sneezing:

• Mild Irritants: Remove the source (e.g., switch litter, avoid scented products) and use a humidifier to soothe nasal passages.
• Infections: Viral infections may require supportive care (fluids, eye drops), while bacterial infections need antibiotics.
• Allergies: Antihistamines or steroids under veterinary guidance can reduce inflammation.
• Serious Conditions: In rare cases, surgery may be needed to remove nasal polyps or tumors.