Saturday, March 23, 2024
HomeCatCan Cats Have Allergies And Sneeze

Can Cats Have Allergies And Sneeze

Causes Treatment And Prevention

Cat Allergy Sneezing Fits

Jeanne Grunert

Just like people, kittens and cats sneeze for a variety of reasons. An occasional sneeze isn’t a symptom of a serious feline health problem, and it often has to do with environmental allergens or irritants that can easily be managed. However, constant sneezing could indicate that another illness is present.

If your kitten is sneezing, you may worry that something is wrong. The good news is that there are many normal reasons for a mildly sneezing kitten. Excessive or moderate and severe sneezing should always be checked out by a veterinarian, as respiratory problems and other diseases can lead to infections when left untreated.

What To Do For Your Sneezing Cat

You can do many things to help your cat from sneezing, but first, you will have to figure out the cause of the sneezing. If your cat is sneezing due to a serious illness, consult with your veterinarian on the steps you need to take, but less serious reasons will be more manageable.

When your cat has a sneezing fit because of dust or another airborne allergen, you can easily eliminate these products. You can do some of the following to help remove these and reduce the likelihood of your cats sneezing fits:

  • Dust your house regularly.
  • Wash your cats beds once a week at least.
  • Have plants in the home that your cat isnt allergic to.

You will find that keeping your house clean and refraining from using strong scents that can irritate your cats nostrils will be helpful. Having plants in the home has also proven to boost immune systems and enrich the environment. You will also find that all these help you as well.

If your cat suffers from seasonal allergies, you may want to talk to your veterinarian about prescribing allergy medication. You can use human allergy medicines on dogs, but this is not the case with your friendly feline. Their digestive systems will not be able to handle it, so consult with your vet.

Cleaning your home can help against seasonal allergies and ensure that you are keeping a tight lid on your home. This will reduce symptoms because they arent being exposed to the allergen.

Read Also: Why Is Cat In Victorious So Crazy

How Do I Clear My Cats Nasal Congestion

If your cat has a stuffy nose use a clean damp cloth or some cotton wool soaked in warm water to gently wipe your cats nose. Cleanse and soothe your cats watery eyes by applying a saline solution with gauze pads. While your cat is stuffy they will have difficulty smelling food and may stop eating.2020/02/24

Don’t Miss: Can Infants Have Pollen Allergies

What To Look For

In addition to monitoring any excessive sneezing, you should also pay attention to your kittys nasal discharge. Sneezing and nasal discharge can appear together or can occur as separate problems. They are associated with disorders of the nasal cavity, nasal sinuses, or both, explains VCA Animal Hospital. While an occasional sneeze is perfectly normal, repeated bouts of vigorous sneezing suggests irritation of the nasal cavity. In addition to sneezing and nasal discharge, symptoms including eye discharge, loss of appetite, lethargy and coughing may indicate your kitty is suffering from an infection.

Symptoms Of Allergies In Cats

Grumpy cat sneezingor pushing out the foul beast from within. # ...

Allergic cats most often exhibit symptoms of skin irritation, showing scabbing, itchiness, and over-grooming.

Cats with allergies often have a skin reaction called miliary dermatitis. This causes hundreds of little rash-like, scabby lesions on your cats skin, especially along the back and neck.

They are also itchy- you may see them itching with their paws or grooming more often. Overgrooming their itchy skin can also lead to patches of hair loss. Some cats will be more prone to ear infections.

Cats that are allergic to airborne allergens such as pollen might also show allergy symptoms such as runny eyes, itchy eyes, sneezing, or even coughing and fast breathing.

Lastly, cats with allergies to their diet may have some gastrointestinal symptoms as well, such as loose stools, excessive gas, and occasional vomiting.

Read Also: How Do People Get Allergies

Why Is My Cat Sneezing A Lot

Respiratory Infection A cat with allergies or a cold may start to sneeze, and cats can be infected with viruses, pathogens, and bacteria that can all cause these problems. If your cat is sneezing a lot for several days or if she shows other signs of being sick, you should take her to the veterinarian to be examined.

When Should I Call The Vet For My Sneezing Cat

If your cats sneezing is persistent or accompanied by other symptoms like nasal discharge, labored breathing, loss of appetite or fever, call your vet. Sneezing accompanied by other symptoms could be a sign your cat is suffering from an upper respiratory infection or other underlying condition that may require veterinary care.

Dont Miss: Homemade Food For Cats With Urinary Problems

Also Check: What Foods Cause Food Allergies

Is Sneezing Normal For Cats

Yes, of course, its natural for cats to sneeze. Much like us humans, cats can have irritants or allergens infiltrate their nose and mouth and cause them to sneeze. If you hear your cat sneeze once or twice, there is probably nothing wrong.

Occasional sneezes are safe, but if your cat is sneezing frequently there might be another cause. A wide range of different viral, fungal, and bacterial infections can cause sneezing.

If your cat will not stop sneezing, it is best to see a vet for a diagnosis. Many times, a vet will take a swab test of your cats nose, ears, and mouth to determine if there is an infection.

Why Do Cats Sneeze

cat allergy sneezing fit
  • Cats do occasionally sneeze and this is not usually a cause for concern
  • If your cat is sneezing more than usual and seems unwell, you should contact your vet
  • A sneeze can be a sign of something as simple as a nose tickle, to something more complicated like a virus

Just like humans, cats do occasionally sneeze and this is nothing to be concerned about.

However, if your cat is sneezing more than usual and seems unwell, then it may be worth considering whether something else could be bothering your pet and seeking the advice of your vet.

Also Check: Can Allergies Cause Cold Symptoms

Can A Cat Cold Cause My Cat To Sneeze

Its time to get the cat out of the bag -no pun intended- and deal with the most common and asked question of all times: Do Cats Have Colds?

~ And the answer is yes.

Your cats cold is an Upper Respiratory Infection caused by a virus that differs from the human cold virus. We call these viruses colds because they cause similar symptoms. Human cold viruses tend to be either respiratory syncytial virus or influenza A virus. But do not worry as viruses are not contagious between species, so pet viruses cannot infect people or vice-versa.

Treatment For Feline Asthma

There are two main types of treatment to manage asthma in cats anti-inflammatory drugs such as corticosteroids to reduce the inflammation which leads to the symptoms, and bronchodilator medication which helps to widen a felines air passage when needed. Antihistamine drugs may also be used when cats havent responded to other treatments.

Medication is often administered through an inhaler, but can also be given in tablet or injection form. If an inhaler is recommended then ensure you are clear on how to use it, with guidance from your vet. Inhalers used by people work differently from those prescribed for cats because you cant ask your pet to breathe deeply to trigger release of the drug.

Don’t Miss: How To Eat Healthy With Food Allergies

How Did My Indoor Cat Get An Upper Respiratory Infection

The viruses and bacteria that cause URI in cats are highly contagious. Susceptible cats can get an infection by direct contact with another infected cat or by environmental exposure to objects that have been contaminated with infectious secretions, such as food and water bowls, litter boxes, toys, and bedding.

Chronic Upper Respiratory Conditions

Summer Dangers: Poisonous Plants and Allergies in Cats and Dogs

Frequent and recurring sneezing in cats can also be due to chronic respiratory conditions. Chronic rhinitis is the most common and is usually the result of permanent damage to the immune system and nasal passages.

Symptoms

The symptoms of chronic upper respiratory conditions in cats are similar to upper respiratory infections and inflammation, but persist over weeks or months or in intervals of a few weeks. Conditions like chronic rhinitis can also lead to recurring bacterial infections, which can worsen the symptoms.

These symptoms may include:

Also Check: How To Help Allergy Eyes

What Are Some Symptoms Of A Cat Cold

The signs for a viral upper respiratory infection -or cold- may vary but might include sneezing, runny nose, congestion, sometimes fever, coughing, discharge from the eyes, and even ulcers in the mouth or around the nose and eyes.

Additionally, your cat might start scratching their face, having trouble breathing, making wheezing or coughing noises when they try to inhale air.

Most cats tend to conceal signs of illness from humans. Still, other behavioral changes are losing interest in eating, feeling sluggish, or having trouble keeping up with normal activities, which can also be signs of other health problems. So be conscious of any changes in behavior and contact your veterinarian immediately. And, please do not give your pet any over-the-counter medication unless youve talked to your vet first.

What Causes Cat Allergies

A visit to the vet or an at-home intolerance test kit, like the one offered by 5Strands will help you narrow things down.

But generally speaking, there are three common types of allergies cats may suffer from, including:

  • Environmental allergies

Food allergies typically cause gastrointestinal symptoms and itchy skin a more severe food allergy could lead to your cat losing patches of fur around the head and neck.

Dairy products, animal proteins found in cat food, and eggs are all common allergens.

Environmental allergies in cats can have many different triggers, such as pollens, dust, cleaning products, scents and perfumes, mold, and specific plants. Cats are likely to experience coughing, ear infections, sneezing, itchy skin, and swollen paws.

Flea allergies in cats might come from the actual flea bites or, in some cases, the products used for flea treatment. Excessive itching, accompanied by chewing on the fur, especially right above the tail, typically points to a flea allergy.

Here’s a quick overview of substances commonly found in and around the home that cats may be allergic to:

  • Cat food or treats
  • Various surfaces, such as fabrics, latex, and rubber

Can A Cat Have Seasonal Allergies?

Yes, cats can be susceptible to inhalant allergies or atopy often referred to as “seasonal allergies” triggered by things such as pollen, grass, mold, and dust.

Also Check: How To Get Rid Of Allergies Permanently

What If A Cat Sneezes In Your Face

I would recommend that you wash your hands thoroughly after handling your sneezing cats and try not to let them sneeze into your face. Fortunately, the eye infection is treatable with antibiotics. Cats also can get a herpes virus that can cause upper respiratory problems, including sneezing.1989/11/30

What Causes Cat Sneezing

Funny Sneezing Cats Cats Can’t Stop Sneezing (Full) [Funny Pets]

Cat sneezing can be surprisingly difficult to diagnose, for several reasons. First, your veterinarian will need to confirm that your cat is actually sneezing.

Coughing, gagging, reverse sneezing, hiccupping, retching, and wheezing can all be misidentified as a sneeze, and each of these symptoms come with a separate list of possible causes.

Take a video of your cat during an episode to help your vet confirm whether it really is a sneeze.

Another obstacle in diagnosing cat sneezing is the plethora of underlying causes. Infections, chronic inflammation, dental disease, cancer, and inhalation of foreign material can all cause a cat to sneeze.

Further complicating matters is the fact that in cats, more than one of these causes is usually going on at the same time.

Here are some of the possible causes for sneezing in cats.

Read Also: Can Allergies Cause Your Temperature To Rise

Dog Allergy Management And Treatment

Avoidance is the best way to manage a dog allergy. If you have a dog and are allergic to dogs, consider removing the dog from the home.

If you have a dog but dont want to find it a new home, or if your family wants a dog even though someone in the household is allergic, here are some strategies that may help keep symptoms at bay:

  • Keep the dog out of your bedroom and restrict it to only a few rooms. Be advised that keeping the dog in only one room will not limit the allergens to that room.
  • Dont pet, hug or kiss the dog if you do, wash your hands with soap and water.
  • High-efficiency particulate air cleaners run continuously in a bedroom or living room can reduce allergen levels over time.
  • Regular use of a high-efficiency vacuum cleaner or a central vacuum can reduce allergen levels.
  • Giving your dog a bath at least once a week can reduce airborne dog allergen.

Treatments for dog allergy vary, depending on the symptoms.

Your allergist can help determine what treatment would be best to treat your dog allergy. Nasal symptoms are often treated with steroid nasal sprays, oral antihistamines or other oral medications. Eye symptoms are often treated with antihistamine eyedrops. Respiratory or asthma symptoms can be treated with inhaled corticosteroids or bronchodilators to either prevent or relieve respiratory symptoms.

Allergy shots are an effective treatment of allergies by building tolerance over time through gradually injecting increasing doses of an allergen.

How To Stop Your Cat From Sneezing

If your cats sneezing is not severe, the best way to stop your cat from sneezing is to take steps to prevent the irritation causing the sneeze.

  • Make sure your cat is up-to-date on its vaccinations
  • Be aware of the scents in your house Candles, air fresheners, certain laundry detergents, or cigarette smoke, may be the cause.
  • Check out the litter box Some types of litter tend to kick up more dust when being used and may be the source of irritation.
  • Be careful when cleaning It is important to keep your home clean, but it is also essential that you are careful with the disinfectant used around your cats space. The chemicals and any fruity scents may cause discomfort.

Read Also: Can Allergies Cause Hearing Loss And Tinnitus

Cat Runny Nose Treatment

If you have concerns about your cats runny nose, then you should always consult your veterinarian. While sometimes a runny nose is just a runny nose, the potential of it being a greater health concern is worth getting an expert opinion to help keep your kitty feeling happy and healthy.

As with any cat health issue, the vet first needs to determine the cause before making treatment recommendations. Your cats vet can pinpoint whats causing their runny nose by conducting nasal discharge analysis and blood tests. If they determine that treatment is necessary, they may prescribe an antibiotic or another medication to help clear the nasal passages and alleviate congestion. They may also recommend using a nebulizer machine that delivers medicine through a vapor.

While runny noses are often harmless, know that even severely snotty cats can often be effectively treated.

Prognosis For Cats With Excessive Sneezing

Pet Allergy Season Is Here

Since there are a variety of reasons that your cat could be sneezing excessively, the prognosis for your specific cat will depend on your veterinarian’s diagnosis. Thankfully, most issues that cause cats to sneeze consistently are not life-threatening, but preventing and treating any infections is key. Your veterinarian will recommend appropriate treatment options with a more detailed prognosis based on any other symptoms your cat is experiencing.

You May Like: Can Oral Allergy Syndrome Cause Hives

Seasonal And Environmental Allergies

Just like humans can be allergic to anything from pollen to laundry detergents, felines are also prone to seasonal and environmental allergies. Allergies can cause sneezing fits, watery eyes, coughing, bloating, and skin itchiness in cats. Some of the more common cat allergies are:

Luckily, discovering what your cat is allergic to is simple if you narrow down recent changes in the household.

  • Did your cat begin scratching and sneezing after you changed her dry food?
  • Did the sneezing and coughing start after you washed her favorite blanket with a new detergent?
  • Did the trees recently begin blooming in early spring?

One by one, undo the changes youve made and see if it reverses your cats symptoms. A cat sensitive to irritants may also prefer dust-free litter, a prescription diet, unscented cleaners, and regular flea and tick preventatives. Severe cat allergies might require antihistamine treatments to reduce itchiness and respiratory responses.

Do you want to learn more about the most common cat allergies? The video below will explain the eight most common causes of relentless sneezing, itching, and chewing in our feline friends:

You May Like: How Often To Feed A 3 Month Old Kitten

What Treatments Are Available

When you bring your pet into the vet and ask them, “Why does my cat keep sneezing?” the doctor will do a series of tests to help answer the question. They will give your cat a swab from the mouth, nose, throat or eyes and set it to the lab to determine if there is an infection.

For mild respiratory infections, the doctor may provide some antibiotic medicine or eye/nose drops to aid with recovery. For sinus issues, steroids may be used to help open up your cat’s nasal passages.

All cat owners want to make sure their special friend stays in good health. So, while you don’t have to watch over every single sneeze, if your cat begins exhibiting signs of illness, act quickly and consult with your vet. Also, making sure your cat stays on its vaccination schedule is a great preventative measure to keep your animal healthy and happy.

Also Check: How To Get Rid Of Allergies Natural Remedies

RELATED ARTICLES

Most Popular