Why Is My Cat Sneezing? Causes From Allergies to Infections

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 20, 20264 min read

A sneeze is the body's way of clearing the nose, and most cats sneeze now and then. When sneezing becomes frequent, or comes with discharge or other signs, it is worth finding out why. The causes range from trivial to serious, and the way your cat sneezes can offer clues.

Normal sneezing

A single sneeze, or a short bout after dust, perfume or litter, is not a concern. Cats may also sneeze when they play, or after eating if a bit of food irritates the nose, or when they are excited. A healthy cat sneezes occasionally and otherwise acts normally.

Common causes of frequent sneezing

Upper respiratory infection. The most common cause, usually from herpesvirus or calicivirus, causing sneezing, nasal and eye discharge. See upper respiratory infections in cats.

Allergies and irritants. Dust, pollen, mold, smoke, scented candles, cleaning products and dusty litter can trigger sneezing. See how to choose cat litter.

Dental disease. Infected teeth, especially upper ones, can cause nasal discharge and sneezing. See cat dental disease.

Foreign bodies. Grass blades, seeds or bits of food in the nose cause sudden violent sneezing, often on one side.

Chronic rhinitis and sinusitis. Long-term inflammation, often after a viral infection.

Nasal polyps and tumors. More often in older cats, causing noisy breathing, one-sided discharge or nosebleeds.

Fungal infections. Such as cryptococcosis, in some regions.

Asthma and bronchial disease. Cause coughing or wheezing rather than sneezing, but may be confused. See feline asthma.

Look at the details

Note:

• Is the discharge clear, yellow, green or bloody?
• Does it come from one nostril or both?
• Does your cat also have watery eyes? See cat eye problems.
• Is the cat eating and drinking?
• Is the breathing noisy or labored?
• Has the cat been around other sick cats, new pets or smoke?
• Is the cat vaccinated? See cat vaccination schedule.

Share this with your vet.

When it is an emergency

Go to a vet at once if your cat:

• Breathes with an open mouth, or has labored breathing
• Has blue or pale gums
• Has heavy nosebleeds
• Cannot eat or drink
• Collapses or is very lethargic

See the emergency warning signs guide.

When to see a vet

Book an appointment if:

• Sneezing lasts more than a few days
• Discharge is colored, bloody or one-sided
• Your cat has a fever, loses appetite or seems unwell
• Your cat is a kitten, a senior or has a chronic illness. See kitten sneezing and eye discharge.
• Sneezing comes with mouth ulcers or drooling

Use the US vet directory to find a clinic.

What the vet may do

Your vet will examine your cat, the mouth and nose, and may run swab tests, X-rays, dental imaging or a scope examination of the nose. Treatment depends on the cause, such as antibiotics, antivirals, dental treatment, polyp removal or allergen avoidance.

Home care for mild cases

• Wipe the nose and eyes gently with a warm, damp cloth.
• Use steam from a hot shower to ease congestion, with supervision.
• Warm and tempt your cat with smelly food. See wet vs dry cat food.
• Keep the home dust-free and smoke-free.
• Use unscented, low-dust litter.
• Isolate from other cats if infection is suspected.

Never give human cold or decongestant medications. Many contain ingredients, such as acetaminophen and pseudoephedrine, that are toxic to cats. See cat poisoning what to do.

Sneezing in kittens and seniors

Kittens with sneezing and eye discharge may have a serious infection that can spread quickly. Seniors with chronic sneezing or nasal discharge could have dental disease or tumors. In both groups, do not wait. See cat poisoning what to do if sneezing comes after a chemical exposure.

Reverse sneezing and similar noises

Some cats make snorting or honking noises that look like reverse sneezing. They are usually brief and harmless, though repeated episodes should be checked. Coughing or wheezing is different and may signal asthma. See feline asthma.

Reducing irritants

Switch to unscented, low-dust litter, avoid sprays, candles and plug-ins, keep the home smoke-free and vacuum regularly. Open windows to bring in fresh air when safe.

Keeping notes

Write down when sneezing starts, how often it happens and any triggers, such as a new litter or candle. A short video of a sneezing episode and a photo of any discharge help your vet decide what tests are needed.

Prevention

Keep vaccinations current, reduce stress and avoid irritants. Quarantine new cats before introductions. See how to introduce a new cat to your cat.

This article is general educational information, not veterinary advice. Every cat is different. If your cat is unwell, or you are unsure about a symptom, diet change or medication, contact your veterinarian.