Why Is My Cat Sneezing? Does It Have Allergies?

You're here because you want to know, "Why is my cat sneezing?" If you've noticed your cat sneezing more than usual, you might wonder if it’s something serious or just a tickle in the nose.

While an occasional sneeze is no big deal, frequent or persistent sneezing in cats can point to an underlying issue that needs attention. Let’s break down why cat sneezing happens and when it’s time to talk to your vet.

Common Causes of Sneezing in Cats

Just like in humans, a cat's nasal passages can be irritated by dust, perfume, or even certain types of cat litter. This can trigger sneezing, especially if your cat is sniffing around or has recently encountered a new scent or allergen.

Upper respiratory infections are another common cause. These infections, which affect the respiratory tract, are often viral or bacterial.

The most common viral culprits include feline herpesvirus and feline calicivirus. These viruses can cause sneezing, nasal discharge (runny nose), and other symptoms like fever or even dehydration.

Infections and Chronic Conditions

Bacterial or even fungal infections may follow an initial viral infection as secondary infections. These can result in persistent sneezing, nasal discharge, and difficulty breathing.

Chronic rhinitis or chronic respiratory conditions often develop in cats that have had repeated infections, especially older cats or those with weakened immune systems. This can lead to frequent sneezing and long-term nasal inflammation.

Other Health Issues That Cause Sneezing

Dental disease is an often-overlooked cause of sneezing in cats. Infections in the upper jaw can extend into the nasal cavity, leading to inflammation and sneezing. If your cat’s sneezing is accompanied by bad breath or trouble eating, a dental exam might be in order.

Foreign material lodged in the nose — like a blade of grass or dust — can also trigger sneezing. Sometimes, sneezing helps dislodge hidden foreign material in the nasal passages.

Cats can also develop allergies, although it's less common than in dogs. These can trigger mild symptoms like repeated sneezing or skin irritations, and may be managed with medication and environmental changes.

When to See a Vet

Cat at vet — If your sneezing cat won't stop, it may be time to seek medical advice. Gorodenkoff / Shutterstock

If your cat’s sneezing persists, becomes more frequent, or is accompanied by other signs like nasal discharge, loss of appetite, or lethargy, it’s time for veterinary care. Persistent sneezing may indicate upper respiratory viruses, sinus infections, or other serious complications.

Your vet may recommend diagnostic tests and treatments such as antiviral medications, anti-fungal medications, or antibiotics depending on the underlying cause.

Keeping your cat indoors, making sure your cat receives regular vaccinations, and maintaining a clean environment can also support your feline friend's health.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.