Cat Sneezing in Canton, GA: Causes and How to Help

Have you noticed your cat sneezing recently? Unfortunately, sneezing is often a sign that something is wrong with cats, and it isn’t a very common behavior in healthy cats either.

It’s important to understand what could be causing your cat to sneeze and to figure out the right course of action moving forward. In this article, we’ll show you some of the most common causes of cat sneezing in Canton, GA as well as some treatments you can expect if you’re dealing with a cat who has a sneezing problem.

 

Causes of Cat Sneezing in Canton, GA

Airborne Contaminants

Sometimes, your cat may simply sneeze because he breathes in dust, pollen, or some other airborne contaminant. When this is the cause, he may only sneeze a couple of times and then go back to his usual behavior. This isn’t normally anything to worry about.

Tumors or Foreign Objects in the Nose

Some cats may inhale foreign objects while sniffing. Others may develop tumors within the nose or nasal cavity. Both problems can cause an obstruction that may lead to sneezing and other symptoms as well.

Upper Respiratory Infection

Upper respiratory infections are the most common cause of sneezing in cats, and cats are very prone to these ailments. Cats with an upper respiratory infection may cough, sneeze, or have a runny nose or runny eyes. They may also stop eating well.

Dental Disease

Cats with moderate to severe dental disease or tumors of the gums may also begin to sneeze frequently. They may be unwilling to eat and may quickly lose weight because of this disease as well.

Urinary Tract Infections

Although uncommon, some cats with urinary tract infections may develop sneezing as a secondary symptom. This can sometimes occur because of the infection that is causing the urinary problem. However, it can also occur as part of an upper respiratory infection if your cat’s immune system is compromised by the urinary tract issue in the first place.

Allergies and Sinus Inflammation

Allergies to pollen and other substances may cause cat sneezing in Canton, GA. These allergies usually also cause sinus inflammation. Both problems are very similar to allergies and sinusitis in humans. Although they aren’t a cause for alarm on their own, they can sometimes lead to more serious issues and should therefore be treated right away.

Cat Sneezing Treatments in Canton, GA

Antibiotics

Most veterinarians in Canton, GA will prescribe antibiotics for upper respiratory or urinary tract infections, unless the infection is clearly caused by a virus instead of a bacterium. They may also give antibiotics if your cat has a dental disease, to prevent further infection from spreading.

Steroids

Cats with severe allergies or serious upper respiratory infections may be given steroids. Steroids can help the cat’s body fight off the infection or allergic reaction, but they are not suitable for long-term treatment. Your vet will work with you to come up with a long-term solution after the round of steroids has finished.

Humidifiers

Many cats with allergies and frequent upper respiratory infections respond well to humidifiers. Keep a humidifier in the room where your cat frequently sleeps but be sure it is put away so he cannot reach it or knock it over. Call (770) 479-7141 and speak with your vet at Riverstone Animal Hospital if you have concerns about this method.

Cat Vaccinations

Many feline respiratory illnesses can be prevented completely by having your cat vaccinated against them. Your veterinarian can give you more information about available and recommended vaccinations for your cat and can make sure your furry friend is up to date on everything he needs to stay healthy.

Reduced Stress

Cats are more prone to developing lasting or recurring health problems when they are stressed—just like humans are. If you can cut back on your cat’s stress levels, you may be able to help him heal and prevent him from getting sick again in the future. Try giving him a safe space all his own in your home to help with this.

Different Food or Litter Choices

Cats with allergies may respond well to new food or new cat litter. The ingredients in cat food and the dust in litter may contribute to allergic reactions in cats, so changing these may cut down on sneezing and other symptoms.

Your Vet Can Help Your Cat’s Sneezing in Canton, GA

As with any health concerns related to your pet, it’s always important to take your cat to the vet as soon as possible if you notice him sneezing often. If he sneezes just once or twice, this may simply mean something is irritating his nose; however, more frequent sneezing will need to be diagnosed by your vet and possibly treated as well.

When you respond in a timely fashion to sneezing in your cat, you’ll be able to give him the best possible chance at healing and getting back to normal quickly. For more information talk to your vet at Riverstone Animal Hospital in Canton, GA by calling (770) 479-7141 or booking an appointment online.