Cats Sniffle After Drinking Water: Possible Causes!

1. Nonpathological Sneezing in Cats

Cats may inadvertently inhale water into their nasal passages when they drink, especially if they are thirsty. This can stimulate the nasal mucosa, leading to reflexive coughing and sneezing as they attempt to expel the water from their nostrils, thereby alleviating discomfort. Additionally, the way cats drink can contribute to this issue. Cats tend to lap at water, and during this process, some water may splash into their nasal passages, causing irritation to the nasal mucosa and prompting a reflexive sneeze to clear the nasal cavity. Cats may also sneeze if the water is too cold.

2. Pathological Sneezing in Cats

When a cat sneezes due to underlying health issues, the act of drinking water is not the primary cause but rather a symptom of an existing condition. Pathological reasons for sneezing in cats often involve upper respiratory infections, which can range from common colds to viral infections, with the latter being more severe. The most noticeable symptom of upper respiratory infections is an increase in facial secretions. For common colds, the key to treatment is ensuring proper care, keeping the cat warm, staying hydrated, and maintaining a balanced diet. However, for viral infections, it may be necessary to add medication to the care routine, along with providing a comfortable environment and maintaining daily cleanliness.

For more information on how to treat sneezing in cats, click on "What to Do When Your Cat Sneezes" to learn about treatment methods.