Why Cats Sneeze: Unveiling the Reasons Behind Feline Sn

When a kitten sneezes, it often involves several common upper respiratory pathogens. In middleaged cats, sneezing is typically due to the feline herpesvirus. However, in older pets, the reasons for sneezing can be more varied. If an elderly pet is only sneezing from one nostril, the likelihood of nasal polyps or nasal tumors is higher.

Common Causes of Sneezing in Cats:

Feline Rhinitis or Feline Coughing: Most sneezing in dogs is due to upper respiratory infections. These mild infections often present with only sneezing as a symptom. Cats, being curious creatures, are more susceptible to infections due to their frequent sniffing. These "pet colds" are caused by airborne viruses and bacteria.

Cat Herpesvirus (Feline Rhinotracheitis Virus): This virus is a common cause of sneezing in cats, often referred to as "kitty colds." While the virus does not transfer from dogs to cats and vice versa, if it's a bacterial infection, both can infect each other. The feline herpesvirus is typically the root cause of sneezing in cats.

Young and Old Pets at Risk: Very young and very old pets are more at risk due to their developing or weakened immune systems. Young animals may be susceptible to infections after their temporary immunity from their mothers wears off, while older pets may experience more severe infections due to changes in their nasal mucosa and less active immune systems, especially in brachycephalic breeds with narrower nasal passages.

Bacteria and Mycoplasma: These can also cause sneezing independently or in conjunction with other pathogens. Cats are prone to bacterial upper respiratory infections caused by bacteria like Pasteurella, Bordetella, Streptococcus, Chlamydia, Mycoplasma, and Pseudomonas. These bacteria, which affect respiratory health, do not discriminate between cats, dogs, or humans, attacking any nose they encounter.

Carriers: Some pets may carry these bacteria and viruses without showing symptoms, silently spreading infections to other animals they come into contact with.

NonInfectious Causes of Sneezing:

Environmental Allergens: Just like in humans, household products can trigger sneezing in pets. Common culprits include dusty cat litter containing silicon dioxide crystals, perfumes, cigarette smoke, household cleaners, glass fibers, pesticides, and deodorizers.

Allergies: While most pet allergies cause itching or wheezing, some pets may sneeze due to pollen and mold in the air. Antihistamines may help with seasonal allergies, but food allergies can cause diarrhea and other symptoms.

Foreign Objects: It's not uncommon for pets to get grass or dust particles stuck in their nostrils. These foreign bodies can cause onesided nasal discharge and sneezing. Some pets may need physical removal of these objects.

Dental Abscesses: In cats, the root of the third incisor can pierce the nasal cavity. An infection in this tooth or the adjacent one can lead to sneezing and nasal discharge.

Breed Characteristics: Certain cat breeds, such as the Siamese and Persian, have narrower nasal passages due to their flat faces, making them more prone to sneezing.

Treatment Options:

Prevention: Vaccinations can help prevent upper respiratory infections in cats and dogs, but most infections occur before the first vaccination. Keeping pets away from infected animals is the most effective method of prevention.

Treatment: Most sneezing pets do not require antibiotics, but they may be necessary if the pet's activity level and appetite decrease. A rectal thermometer can help determine if the pet has a fever, indicating a more serious respiratory infection.

Home Care: Rest, a comfortable environment, and good nutrition are often sufficient. Feeding pets delicious, strongsmelling food can help stimulate their appetite, as their sense of smell may be diminished during a cold.

Medications: Eye ointments, frequent cleaning of the nose with warm, moist cotton, and antiviral eye drops may be helpful for cats with herpesvirus infections. Steroid nasal sprays and nasal saline flushes can also be beneficial for pets with chronic rhinitis.

Foreign Objects: If a foreign object is present, it may need to be physically removed or surgically removed under anesthesia.

Tumors: If the problem is a tumor, the surgery can be complex and may not be curative.

New Diagnostic Methods:

Realtime polymerase chain reaction (RTPCR) tests can identify trace amounts of pathogens without the need for laboratory culturing. These tests can identify the six most common causes of feline upper respiratory, nasal, and/or chronic eye problems.

Conclusion:

Sneezing is not a severe illness in pets. With proper care and treatment, most cats can recover. While antibiotics can help combat potential bacterial infections, most cases of sneezing in cats resolve on their own.