Cat Sneezing in Wilton Manors, FL: Causes and How to Help
When your cat sneezes, it’s hard not to worry. After all, sneezing isn’t quite as common in cats as it is in dogs or even humans, so you may find yourself concerned about your pet’s health and wellbeing when it happens.
Most of the time, sneezing in cats is fairly benign. However, it’s still important to learn some of the most common causes of this problem and how to help as well. Read through the article below to learn this information and more. If you still have questions, call Arbor Pet Hospital in Wilton Manors at (954) 565-1896.
Causes
Normal behavior
Some sneezing is normal for cats, just like it is for dogs, humans, and other animals. Single sneezes now and then are likely nothing to worry about.
Allergies
Pollen allergies, seasonal allergies, and food allergies can all potentially cause sneezing in cats. These allergies can be lifelong problems for some cats, or they may start later in life for others. Either way, they are often accompanied with other allergy symptoms like runny nose and watery eyes.
Inhalation of Foreign Object
If cats inhale foreign objects accidentally while sniffing, playing, or eating, the objects may become lodged in their nasal passages. This is not very common in cats, but it can still occur, and it is very dangerous. You should take your cat to the emergency vet if this happens.
Irritants
Irritants in the environment such as candles, smoke, incense, or chemical cleaners may cause your cat to sneeze if they inhale them. If the sneezing only happens once or twice and everything seems fine afterward, this is probably nothing to worry about. However, if your cat seems badly affected by these smells, take them to the veterinarian. Some scents are very dangerous for cats.
Nasal Tumors
Cats who develop nasal tumors may sneeze because of the irritation caused by the tumors. This condition may be cancerous or benign, but it usually requires surgery to correct the problem.
Respiratory Infection
Cats who develop bacterial, viral, or fungal respiratory infections will likely sneeze as part of their symptoms. If your cat’s sneezing is accompanied by other signs of being sick, such as loss of appetite, fever, lethargy, coughing, or wheezing, there’s a good chance they are suffering from a respiratory illness.
Treatments and Management
Wait it out
Normal behavior, some irritants, and some allergies can all clear up by simply waiting in most cases. In these instances, you may only need to offer your cat plenty of fluids (water, broth, or wet food) and try to encourage them to rest for a day or two until they feel better.
Medication
Bacterial and fungal respiratory infections may require medication to treat. Additionally, some cats may have such severe allergic reactions to allergens that they need antihistamines or even steroids to treat the symptoms. Never give any medication to your cat without the express direction of your vet—including human medicine.
Removal of allergen or irritant
If your cat is exposed to an allergen or irritant that causes him to start sneezing, there’s a chance you can take care of the issue entirely by simply removing the cause of the sneezes. Get rid of the incense or change your cleaning products and your cat may start to feel better right away.
Treatment of tumors
Finally, if your cat suffers from nasal tumors, you’ll need to talk with your vet to figure out the best treatment options for your pet. Your vet will be able to tell you more about surgery or other types of treatments to shrink or remove the tumors.
With the help of this information, you should be able to recognize when your cat’s sneezing could be a sign of something more serious. You can use this knowledge to determine when it’s time to talk to your vet in Wilton Manors, FL.
As with any problems related to your cat’s health, be sure to talk to the vet if you have any further concerns. Even if you suspect the sneezing may be nothing serious, if you’re worried for your cat, the best thing you can do is take them to the vet. Your vet will be able to give you an accurate diagnosis and help you determine treatment plans if necessary, too. Call Arbor Pet Hospital today at (954) 565-1896.