Sneezing in cats: what to do
Frequent sneezing with eye/nose discharge suggests an upper respiratory infection (cat flu).
What are the common causes?
Home care & observation tips
- ✓Wipe eyes and nose with a damp pad
- ✓Warm the food to boost smell and tempt eating
- ✓Isolate from other cats; watch breathing
When must you see a vet?
- ⚠No food at all for 24 hours
- ⚠Rapid or open-mouth breathing
- ⚠A kitten in poor condition
FAQ
Is sneezing in cats serious?
It depends on the combination of symptoms, how long it has lasted, and your pet's energy and appetite.It is often linked to mild issues, but if nothing improves within 48 hours a vet visit is warranted. Enter the full symptom combination in our symptom checker for a more specific urgency assessment.
Can I monitor at home first? What should I watch?
If energy and appetite are normal with no other signs, 24-48 hours of monitoring is reasonable. Keep notes on frequency, duration, appetite, water intake, energy and what the stool/urine looks like — vets find this very useful.
What should I prepare before the clinic?
Note when the symptom started and how it changed; bring packaging or residue if ingestion is suspected; bring vaccination and deworming records; and if possible take a video (odd gait, cough sound) — clearer than describing.
Not sure how serious it is? Assess it with the symptom checker
Start symptom check →