Cats are known for their grace, agility, and sometimes goofy behaviours. But why does a cat sneeze? Just like humans, cats can experience occasional sneezing bouts, too. While the rare sneeze is usually harmless, persistent or excessive sneezing could be a sign of an underlying health issue. Not to worry though: we’re here to answer the question “why does my cat keep sneezing” and provide you with valuable insights on what to do or when to seek the assistance of your holistic veterinarian.
Why is my cat sneezing so much?
Have you been catching your cat sneeze lately? Here are some of the reasons why they may be sneezing.
Allergies
Just like humans, cats can develop allergies to various environmental factors, including pollen, dust mites, mold spores, or certain types of food. These allergens can irritate the nasal passages, leading to sneezing or other types of reactions.
Upper respiratory infections
Feline upper respiratory infections, commonly referred to as “cat colds,” are highly contagious viral or bacterial infections. Sneezing is one of the primary symptoms of these infections. Aside from sneezing, other signs include a runny nose, watery eyes, coughing, and decreased appetite.
According to PetWellClinic, the two most common viral infections seen in cats are caused by feline herpesvirus type-1 or feline calicivirus, which cause up to 90% of upper respiratory infections. These viruses and bacterias that cause upper respiratory infections are highly contagious among cats.
Irritants and foreign objects
Cats are naturally curious creatures, and their noses can encounter irritants or foreign objects that trigger sneezing. Common culprits include dust, smoke, cleaning chemicals, or even blades of grass trapped in the nasal passages.
Dental problems
Believe it or not, dental issues can cause your cat to sneeze. Inflamed gums, infected teeth, or dental abscesses can lead to postnasal drip, irritating the throat and causing sneezing.
Nasal polyps or tumors
In rare cases, cats may develop nasal polyps or tumours. These growths can block the nasal passages, causing chronic sneezing, nasal discharge, and breathing difficulties.
Cat litter
Believe it or not, kitty litter can also be the culprit of your cat’s sneeze. If you can, opt for litters with a low dust content, which is less likely to aggravate your cat’s upper respiratory system
When should I worry about my cat sneezing?
If it’s become more persistent and you’re still wondering why does my cat sneeze so much,
Persistent sneezing
If your cat experiences occasional sneezing but is otherwise healthy, it may not be a cause for immediate concern. However, if the sneezing becomes persistent and is accompanied by other symptoms like nasal discharge, coughing, wheezing, or loss of appetite, it’s essential to consult a veterinarian.
Changes in behaviour or appetite
If your cat’s sneezing is accompanied by changes in behaviour, reduced activity levels, or a loss of appetite, it could indicate a more serious underlying condition. Don’t hesitate to seek professional advice.
Sneezing blood
If you notice blood in your cat’s sneezes, it is crucial to seek veterinary attention immediately. This could be a sign of a severe infection, nasal injury, or a nasal tumour.
What to do if my cat keeps sneezing?
If your cat keeps sneezing, it may be time to help them out. Here are some things you can do if your cat keeps sneezing.
Veterinary evaluation
Blue Pearl Pet Hospital says that if your cat’s sneeze hasn’t gone away after a couple of days, it may be time to go to the vet. To determine the cause of your cat’s sneezing, a thorough examination by a veterinarian is necessary. They may perform diagnostic tests such as blood work, X-rays, or nasal swabs to identify underlying infections or abnormalities.
Vaccinations
If you have brought your cat into the vet to get its sneeze looked at, ask about getting vaccinations. Vaccinations are available for the prevention of viral infections related to the most common viruses
Antibiotics and antiviral medications
In cases of upper respiratory infections, your vet may prescribe antibiotics or antiviral medications to combat the underlying issue and relieve symptoms.
Surgery or radiation therapy
If nasal polyps or tumours are diagnosed as a result of sneezing, surgical removal or radiation therapy may be necessary. Your veterinarian will discuss the best treatment options based on the specific condition.
Dental care
Maintaining good dental hygiene and scheduling regular veterinary dental cleanings can help prevent dental issues that could lead to sneezing.
Allergy management
If allergies are the culprit of sneezing, your vet may recommend allergen avoidance strategies, antihistamines, or immunotherapy to help manage your cat’s symptoms.
A raw diet
High-quality protein-based dies can help keep a cat’s immune system strong. If their sneezing is being caused by allergies, we recommend low-glycemic, single-ingredient diets. At Bold by Nature, we’re proud to provide pet parents with raw food diets that are simple and consist of the most basic, essential ingredients. That means nothing but meat, bone, and organs will be found in a Bold by Nature raw cat food diet.
We consider our Bold by Nature Cat recipes to be the best food for cats with allergies. Our Turkey for Cats recipe, for instance, is a single-ingredient, delicious raw diet made with the betterment of your furry feline in mind. There are no artificial flavours and is a great source of minerals and nutrition.
Turkey for Cats is 100% turkey (turkey meat, turkey bone, turkey liver, & turkey heart) with no filler, so you know exactly what is going into your cat’s diet. If your cat’s symptoms haven’t changed after trying this diet, it’ll be a great indication of what has caused the allergies.
On top of our Bold by Nature Cat recipes being able to work in an elimination diet, they also boast a variety of additional benefits. For cats that are stubborn drinkers, each raw recipe is high and naturally rich in moisture, meaning it’s a great way to keep your cat hydrated. This also means a raw diet is a great food for cats with hyperthyroidism. If your cat throws up after eating or experiences dehydration, increased thirst, or higher urine, it may have hyperthyroidism, making water intake very important.
Where can I purchase Bold by Nature products?
Ready to get some raw pet food in Canada? You can purchase Bold by Nature products like Bold by Nature raw cat food either online or at a local retailer that carries our products. Not sure if your local pet store carries our products? Use our handy location finder to find out!
A summary of sneezing
While an occasional sneeze is usually nothing to worry about, persistent or excessive sneezing in cats should not be ignored. Understanding the potential causes of sneezing and recognizing when to seek veterinary care is crucial for ensuring your furry friend’s well-being. If your cat is experiencing persistent sneezing or other concerning symptoms, it’s always best to consult a veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Remember, your veterinarian is your most valuable resource when it comes to your cat’s health.
