Diseases That Cause Sneezing in Cats

Occasional sneezing in cats is no cause for concern. Cats may sneeze because of dust in the air, or an irritant in the nasal passage. When sneezing becomes more frequent, it could suggest an upper respiratory tract infection or a virus, such as rhinotracheitis or calici virus.

  1. Upper Respiratory Tract Infection

    • An upper respiratory tract infection is the cat equivalent of a human cold. Caused by airborne viruses or bacteria, an upper respiratory tract infection is a contagious illness that is common in kennels or boarding facilities. Other symptoms include nasal discharge, runny eyes, cough, oral or nasal ulcers, sniffles, fever and hoarseness. A veterinarian might prescribe antibiotics to treat the illness. Vaccinations are available to protect the cat against possible future outbreaks.

    Rhinotracheitis

    • Rhinotracheitis, or herpes-1, is a feline upper respiratory virus. According to the Cat Fanciers' Association, rhinotracheitis attacks the cat's nose, sinuses, eyes, throat, tonsils, upper palate of the mouth and trachea. Symptoms include depression, sneezing, fever, loss of appetite and a thick, mucous-like discharge from the nose and eyes. Rhinotracheitis is a virus and does not respond to antibiotics, so treatment consists of supportive care. Secondary bacterial infections are possible, so a veterinarian might prescribe antibiotics anyway.

    Calici Virus

    • Calici virus is another feline upper respiratory virus. It is less severe than rhinotracheitis, but can occasionally cause death, especially in kittens. Calici virus affects each cat differently, and symptoms vary from nothing at all to severe pneumonia. Calici mainly affects young kittens, senior cats or cats with suppressed immune systems. Symptoms include mouth ulcers, clear eye and nose discharge, fever, sneezing, loss of appetite and severe drooling. Treatment for calici virus is limited to supportive care.