Reasons Why Your Cat Might Be Sneezing

Scott Kessman

Cat sneezing is common only if it happens occasionally. It may be caused due to an allergen or some irritant that may have got into the nasal passage. However, if your cat has been sneezing continuously for a reasonable period of time, then there might be reason to worry. Under such circumstances, it is best to visit a veterinarian to get a proper diagnosis.

Some of the probable causes for Cat sneezing may be due to feline upper respiratory tract infections. This infection may be caused by the adenovirus or the parainfluenza virus. However, it may also be due to other conditions such as sinus infection, cold, bacterial infection, nasal polyps or even nasal cancer. If your cat suffers from intermittent flare-ups and remission, then the sneezing may be caused due to the feline herpes virus.

Cats tend to develop allergies to a number of things such as pollen, perfumes, mold, insect repellent sprays, cigarette smoke, as well as other household cleaning products. When they come into direct contact with such irritants, they tend to sneeze a lot. The cats that have a flat face and a narrow nasal passage tend to be more prone to such attacks if they are exposed to any of these allergens or irritants.

Cat sneezing may also be caused due to dental problems such as a tooth abscesses. The infection may enter the nasal passage and cause irritation. This may lead to continuous sneezing spells. However, if a cat sneezes up blood, it is best to take it to the veterinarian immediately as this could indicate nasal cancer.

If there are episodes of Cat sneezing, the cat will have to be examined thoroughly and a few diagnostic tests will have to be carried out. Normally, the veterinarian will only suspect something if the sneezing is persistent. Otherwise, sneezing or a runny nose, itching, breathing difficulty, swollen eyes etc., could only indicate allergies. If these symptoms are accompanied by fever or the presence of mucus, it could indicate upper respiratory tract infections. In case you notice a bad odor in the cat's mouth, then it could indicate dental problems.

Published by Scott Kessman

Scott Michael Kessman is a freelance writer and also the author of The Tales of Tanglewood YA fantasy series. The novels meld together Irish & Celtic mythology with modern-day folklore, and are enjoyed by al...  View profile

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