KITTY BANTER ON SPASMODIC EXPULSION: MY CAT KEEPS SNEEZING!
While it may seem strange, a common complaint among many cat owners is this: “My cat keeps sneezing!” As this behavior doesn’t necessarily merit an emergency trip to the veterinarian, it can be symptomatic of many issues. Understanding the many reasons why a cat sneezes can help you to make informed decisions regarding the care of your animal.
My Cat Keeps Sneezing Periodically
If your feline’s sneezes are only an occasional occurrence, there is likely nothing to worry about. Cats are exposed to numerous irritants on a daily basis and, as a basic reflex, will sneeze. Usually triggered by common nuisances like cigarette smoke, cleaning chemicals, or dust and mold; sneezing may come in rapid procession, but will subside once the irritant has been removed.
My Cat Keeps Sneezing All the Time
Recurrent bouts of sneezing that occur frequently with your feline may be a sign of other health issues. It is always advised that you speak with your cat’s veterinarian for proper diagnosis, but for informational purposes; the following is a list of common causes that may be making your cat sneeze.
ALLERGIES
Just as you or I may be allergic to cat dander, cats may be allergic to us. Perfumes, detergents, and hair products we use may be irritating to a feline’s nasal passages. Other than typical allergens, many cats show a reaction to another animal’s dander.
RESPIRATORY ILLNESS
Flu season doesn’t just affect humans; cats are susceptible to viral and bacterial infections, too. In fact, the leading cause of recurrent sneezing among cats is attributed to feline herpesvirus 1. As a highly contagious virus, the herpesvirus spreads among cats and creates potentially serious respiratory illness. Other conditions such as sinus infection and asthma are also known to produce sneezing in felines.
NASAL OBSTRUCTION
Sometimes when a cat sneezes repeatedly, there may be unnatural causes to blame. While unusual, some felines have exhibited sneezing when a foreign object has become lodged in a cat’s nasal passage. In effort to expel alien obstructions, a cat’s reflexes kick in and produce sneezing.
SERIOUS ILLNESS
A sad fact among many cats who exhibit incessant sneezing behaviors, is often the diagnosis of serious illness. Diseases such as leukemia and nasal cancer are treatable when caught early on, but usually by the time diagnosis is made, cancer has already spread to other parts of the body.
What You Can Do to Help
The first step in getting care for your feline begins with awareness. Knowing all possible reasons for cat sneezing is a great start. With this information, you can move forward towards recognizing and eliminating any possible environmental triggers like smoking and other chemicals.
If, after removing likely allergens, your feline still continues to sneeze; attempt to examine his or her nasal passages. As your cat may not enjoy your prodding, it may be wise to enlist the aid of someone else who can restrain him or her. Look for anything foreign that may be wedged inside. While doing so, you may also examine your cat’s nose for any visible sores, as these may be signs of infection.
Once you have ruled out obvious allergens and found no nasal obstruction; a trip to the vet is likely. He or she will be able to test and diagnose your feline for infections, asthma, and other serious health conditions that may be causing your cat’s sneezing.
Regardless of circumstances behind cat sneezing, medical advancements have made almost any situation curable. If you suspect your cat may be ill, contact a veterinarian as soon as possible to lengthen the time you and your feline have together.