Is a Dog or Cat Sniffle Always a Cold?

Understanding Why Dogs and Cats Sneeze, and How to Respond

Dog Sneeze

1. Exposure to Irritating Odors

It's wellknown that dogs have an incredibly sensitive sense of smell, detecting scents that are often imperceptible to humans. This sensitivity can lead to sneezing in response to strong odors, such as those found in newly constructed homes (e.g., formaldehyde), spicy foods, alcohol, or perfumes. These can be the triggers for persistent sneezing in dogs. In such cases, there's usually no need to worry; once the offending scent dissipates, the dog should stop sneezing naturally.

2. Allergies

Just like humans, dogs can have allergic reactions to allergens in the air, such as pollen, which is particularly common during springtime. It's crucial for pet owners to be aware of their dog's specific allergies and to avoid exposing them to potential allergens. This requires careful observation and understanding of your pet's sensitivities.

3. Illness or Viral Infection

Should your dog's sneezing persist for several days or if other causes are ruled out, it may be time to consider a medical issue. In such cases, it's best to consult a veterinarian. Monitor your dog's temperature and look for symptoms like shivering, excessive eye discharge, coughing, runny nose, and a lack of interest in play. These could indicate a cold or other illness, and prompt treatment is necessary.

Cat Sneeze

For cats, allergies are a common cause of sneezing.

When a cat sneezes occasionally, it might be due to a mild irritant, such as dust or smoke. Identifying the cause can help prevent future sneezing episodes. Potential irritants or allergens include cigarette smoke, perfumes, pest sprays, cat litter, cleaning agents, candles, dust, and pollen.

Unexpected Causes

Other factors can also lead to sneezing in cats. For instance, it's not uncommon for cats to sneeze for 4 to 7 days after receiving a nasal vaccine. Sneezing can also be a way for cats to clear nasal blockages. Infections or inflammation of the roots of the teeth can cause sinus drainage and trigger sneezing. Sometimes, overexcitement or vigorous activity can also lead to sneezing.

Viruses, Bacteria, or Fungal Infections

Similar to dogs, if a cat's sneezing persists for an extended period without improvement, it may be infected. Upper respiratory infections are more common in kittens, especially those from animal shelters. Early and complete vaccination can prevent many infections.

The most common viral infections that can cause sneezing in cats include:

Cat Herpes Virus:

Cats can contract the herpes virus from other infected cats. Stress can trigger outbreaks and spread to other cats. Treatment aims to control symptoms. The herpes virus is not contagious to humans.

It's worth noting that supplementing your cat with targeted nutrition can help boost its resistance to the herpes virus. Highpurity lysine, for example, can slow down the replication of the virus in the body, delaying or alleviating symptoms.

Cat Calicivirus:

This virus is highly contagious among cats. Oral ulcers are the most common issue, but it can also affect the respiratory system and even lead to pneumonia. If your cat sneezes for a short period without other symptoms, keeping it indoors and monitoring for changes is advisable. However, if your cat frequently sneezes or shows other signs, it's essential to contact a veterinarian. These could be signs of a disease that requires veterinary care.

Remember, if your pet's sneezing persists or if you notice other concerning symptoms, it's always best to consult with a veterinarian to ensure your furry friend receives the proper care.