Why Is My Cat Sneezing
This page is educational reference material for preparing questions. A licensed veterinarian examines the animal, makes the diagnosis, and sets the treatment.
Cat sneezing causes: upper respiratory infection, allergies, foreign objects, and dental disease. When to see a vet.
Understanding This Symptom
Cats under-report pain and illness by design. Behaviour is where the early information lives. This page covers the most common causes, warning signs that indicate an emergency, and what you can expect at the veterinarian.
When to Seek Emergency Care
Go to an emergency clinic now for any of: laboured or open-mouthed breathing, collapse, seizures, uncontrolled bleeding, or sudden inability to use the hind legs. These do not improve with waiting.
Common Causes
Less Serious Causes
More Serious Causes
- Poisoning or toxic exposure
What to Watch For
- Lethargy or reluctance to move or play
- Vomiting, diarrhea, or changes in stool
Home Care and First Steps
Veterinary Diagnosis
Your veterinarian will typically:
- Perform a thorough physical examination
Treatment Options
Prevention
Long-Term Management
When to Get a Second Opinion
Related Symptom Guides
- Why Is My Cat Not Eating?
- Why Is My Cat Vomiting?
- Why Is My Cat Hiding?
- Why Is My Cat Losing Weight?
- Why Is My Cat Panting?
Should I go to the emergency vet?
Sneezing with open-mouth breathing, a swollen face, or a cat that will not eat needs a prompt visit. A few sneezes in a cat that is still playful can be watched for a day and booked if the discharge turns thick or the appetite drops.
How much will treatment cost?
The exam looks at the eyes, the nose, and the mouth. Upper-respiratory infections are common. A dental problem and a polyp are considered when one side of the nose keeps discharging. Imaging for that is a separate estimate.
Can I treat this at home?
Wipe discharge with a warm cloth, run a humidifier, and keep the cat eating. Offer a strong-smelling food if the nose is blocked. Isolate a new kitten that is sneezing, in a room away from the other cats. Lilies and cleaning sprays belong outside that room.