According to Dr. Mike Richards, DVM, common nose aliments among cats include nasal infections and allergies. Occasionally, cats suffer from more serious bacterial or fungal infections or nasal cancers. Most nose problems are easily treated when caught early.
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Infections
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A viral infection caused by the herpes virus causes nasal dripping among cats. The virus, known as rhinotracheitis, causes chronic sneezing and nasal discharge, especially in indoor cats.
Teeth
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Problems with a cat's mouth often lead to nose problems. Missing teeth and tooth decay can cause chronic nasal discharge.
Allergies
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Cats sometimes suffer from seasonal allergies similar to those that affect humans. Changes in a cat's daily environment, such as moving to a new home or climate, are usually the cause of allergies.
Rare Problems
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Bacterial or fungal infections may cause nasal pain and discharge for cats. Rarely, cats suffer from nasal tumors and cancer. Occasionally, a foreign object becomes lodged in the nose, causing problems.
Prevention
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Regular checkups with a veterinarian will prevent the majority of cat nose problems. Request an oral and nasal exam for a pet suffering from unusual sneezing or nasal dripping.
Treatment
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Most nose problems are easily treated with a decongestant. Severe allergies are often treated with cortisone injections and flushing the nasal cavity. Chemotherapy or radiation effectively treats tumors and cancers.
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