Symptoms & Treatments for Cat Rhinitis: A Comprehensive

Section 1: Symptoms of Cat Rhinitis

1. Chronic Rhinitis: Chronic rhinitis progresses slowly, often resulting in minimal but frequent discharge of mucus, predominantly of a purulent and sticky consistency. If the inflammation spreads to the sinus, it can lead to the necrosis of nasal bones and tissue disintegration over time. The discharge may contain blood and have a foul odor. Chronic rhinitis can be a cause of suffocation or brain disorders and requires serious attention.

2. Acute Rhinitis: The symptoms of acute rhinitis are more pronounced. Initially, the cat's nose may appear red and swollen, and it will frequently sneeze. Affected cats may frequently shake their heads or use their front paws to scratch their nose. Discharge may come from one or both nostrils, starting as a clear fluid and later becoming thicker and more puslike. When dried, it can form crusts around the nostrils. In severe cases, the mucous membrane may swell significantly, narrowing the nasal passages and affecting breathing, with a characteristic nasal congestion sound.

Section 2: Common Treatment Methods for Cat Rhinitis

Firstly, it's crucial to identify and eliminate the underlying cause of the cat's rhinitis. Place the cat in a warm environment and ensure it gets adequate rest. Generally, mild acute cases can often be cured without medication. For cats with severe rhinitis, nasal lavage with medications can be considered: 1% saline solution, 23% boric acid solution, 1% sodium bicarbonate solution, or 0.1% potassium permanganate solution. During lavage, the cat's head should be lowered to prevent aspiration, which can lead to pulmonary inflammation. During the lavage, apply an antiseptic solution to the nostrils to promote vasoconstriction and reduce sensitivity. A gentle and effective approach is to provide the cat with longterm nebulization therapy.

Pet Doctor's Tip: For more information on cat rhinitis, click on "How to Treat Cat Rhinitis" to read more articles.