Why Cats Snort: Unraveling the Mystery Behind Their Nas

The "Jet" Display of Cats

Cats exhibit a unique "jet" action with their noses that may seem reminiscent of our mild coughs or sneezes. It appears as though their nostrils are being stimulated or blocked by some foreign object, leading to a process that resembles a slight, forceful exhalation through the nose.

This behavior of cats "jetting" through their noses can be likened to a common action performed by those with allergies – a brief, gentle forceful breath through the nose. In simple terms, it's akin to a very mild sneeze.

However, the underlying reasons for this "jetting" action in cats can vary, and discerning the exact cause can be determined by the following detailed descriptions:

Nasal Congestion

Nasal congestion can lead to difficulty breathing for cats, prompting them to expel obstructive mucus from their nostrils in a manner similar to us "blowing our noses." Common causes of nasal congestion in cats include:

1. Cold. A change in weather can lead to cats catching a cold if they are not adequately protected from the cold. After a cold, cats may exhibit symptoms such as runny nose (usually clear mucus), sneezing, tearing, coughing, and more. This runny nose can cause breathing difficulties, prompting cats to "jet" through their noses to clear the nasal passages. For mild symptoms, ensuring a warm, windprotected environment and providing cats with lukewarm water can help. For more severe cases, consulting a veterinarian for appropriate treatment is advisable.

2. Feline Rhinitis. Also known as infectious rhinitis, it is a contagious upper respiratory disease caused by the feline rhinitis herpesvirus. Since it is an inflammatory condition, a notable feature is the presence of cloudy, rather than clear, nasal discharge. This differs from a common cold. Other symptoms include a fever during the early stages, coughing, sneezing, tearing, and conjunctivitis. Treatment involves diagnosis by a veterinarian, followed by symptomatic care, primarily focusing on fever reduction and inflammation control.

Inhalation of Foreign Objects

This cause is straightforward, similar to why humans sneeze – something in the nasal passages irritates the nerves, triggering a reflexive sneeze to expel the foreign object.

A common cause of this is often a cat's essential item – cat litter. Some cat litters are prone to breaking down into dust, which can be inhaled by cats as they cover their waste. If the cat litter is dusty, it can cause dust to rise, and the cat to inhale it, irritating the respiratory system and prompting a "sneeze."

Resolving this issue is simple; if the cat litter is the problem, switching to a dustfree alternative can improve the situation.

Some cats may occasionally "jet" through their noses without any other symptoms – not due to a cold, feline rhinitis, or dusty litter. In such cases, the behavior may be attributed to the home's air quality. Regular ventilation or the use of air purifiers can help improve the air quality. If no cause can be found and there are no other abnormalities, there is usually no need for concern. The owner should simply keep a watchful eye on their pet, as long as there are no changes or other issues.