Cat Nose Diseases

If your cat is experiencing prolonged nasal problems, there is a good chance he may be suffering from a feline nasal disease. Feline nasal diseases are best diagnosed and treated by an experienced veterinarian; however, it never hurts to be informed and gather as much information as you can regarding your cat's health and well-being.

  1. Feline Upper Respiratory Disease

    • This condition affects the mouth, nasal passages, sinuses and upper airways of cats of all ages. It is spread through contact with an infected cat (this includes the infected cat's belongings such as bed, dishes and toys). Common symptoms include sneezing, nasal and eye discharge, fever, mouth lesions and/or drooling, and loss of appetite. Treatment includes use of antibiotics, humidifiers, and keeping the cat warm, quiet, well-fed and watered. This condition is highly contagious amongst cats, so any infected cat should be separated from other pets during the recovery period. With proper treatment, full recovery can take 1 to 4 weeks.

    Feline Nasal Cancer

    • This condition is most commonly the result of genetics. Another cause is inflammation of the mucous membrane in the nose, allowing the growth of a cancerous tumor. Symptoms include frequent sneezing and nasal discharge. Your veterinarian performs physical examinations, blood work and x-rays and other diagnostic tests to diagnose feline nasal cancer. Common treatment of this disease is radiation or chemotherapy. Your veterinarian can recommend types of vaccinations which may reduce the risk of your cat's developing feline nasal cancer. Other preventative measures include regular check-ups, keeping your cat in good overall health, and not smoking near your cat.

    Aspergillosis

    • This infection is caused when a fungus is inhaled into the cat's nasal passages and sinuses. This disease is more commonly found in dogs, but has been known to affect cats. Nasal discharge, ulcers on the nose or facial area, and pain/discomfort in the facial area are symptoms of aspergillosis. Diagnostic tests for aspergillosis include nasal swabs and blood tests along with biopsies of the nasal cavity area. Oral and topical antifungal drugs are administered as treatment of the condition. This disease is not contagious to humans from cats, however it can cause human eye infection. Infected cats should be removed from other pets during the recovery period from aspergillosis.