A cat’s sneeze is a reflex action designed to expel irritants from the nasal passages, much like in humans. This sudden release of air helps maintain respiratory health. Occasional sneezing, perhaps once or twice a day or in a short fit, is generally considered normal and rarely indicates a serious health issue.
Temporary and Environmental Triggers
Many instances of sneezing are caused by benign environmental factors that temporarily irritate the sensitive nasal lining. Airborne particles such as household dust, pollen, or clay cat litter often trigger this clearing reflex.
Strong chemical odors from cleaning products, air fresheners, or perfumes can also be highly irritating to a cat’s respiratory system. Cats possess a heightened sense of smell, making them sensitive to volatile organic compounds in the air.
A foreign object, such as a small blade of grass or a loose piece of hair, may also become lodged in the nose, prompting a sudden and persistent sneezing fit until the item is dislodged. Sneezing may also occur due to sudden excitement or over-stimulation. If sneezing stops shortly after the environmental exposure ends, the cause was likely temporary and harmless.
Infectious Causes: Upper Respiratory Issues
Persistent or recurring sneezing is associated with a feline upper respiratory infection (URI), often called “cat flu.” These highly contagious infections primarily involve the nasal passages and throat. Most URIs are caused by one or both of two common viral agents: Feline Herpesvirus-1 (FHV-1) and Feline Calicivirus (FCV).
FHV-1 can damage the respiratory tract lining. After initial infection, most cats become lifelong carriers, with symptoms potentially recurring during periods of stress or immunosuppression. Feline Calicivirus is another common cause, often resulting in sneezing accompanied by painful oral ulcerations on the tongue, palate, or gums.
While the initial infection is viral, the damaged tissue can become susceptible to secondary bacterial invaders, such as Bordetella bronchiseptica. A clear, watery discharge is common during early viral infection. A thick, cloudy, yellow, or greenish discharge signals a secondary bacterial infection requiring veterinary attention.
Recognizing Serious Symptoms and Chronic Issues
A veterinary consultation is appropriate if the sneezing is continuous or lasts longer than 48 to 72 hours. The presence of other systemic signs alongside the sneezing suggests a developing illness that requires professional evaluation. These signs include lethargy, a decrease in activity, or a fever.
Loss of appetite is a concerning sign, as nasal congestion can significantly diminish a cat’s sense of smell, making food unappealing. Owners should also monitor the discharge; thick, purulent (yellow or green), or bloody nasal discharge indicates the condition is advancing or involves a secondary bacterial component.
Pawing or rubbing at the face and signs of difficulty breathing, such as open-mouth breathing or wheezing, are serious symptoms demanding immediate veterinary attention.
Chronic sneezing that persists for weeks or months may point to underlying conditions beyond a typical acute infection. Nasal polyps, which are non-cancerous growths, or severe dental disease can cause chronic irritation in the nasal cavity. Specifically, a severe infection in a tooth root, often in the upper jaw, can erode the bone and create an opening into the sinus, leading to persistent nasal discharge and sneezing.