Sinus infections in kittens are relatively common, but can be a real problem for both you and your kitten. Learn about the symptoms of sinus infections and try treating the sinus infection at home. If the symptoms worsen, seek veterinary treatment for your kitten.
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Symptoms
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The most common symptom of a sinus infection in a kitten is frequent sneezing. Other symptoms can include crusting of the nostrils, difficulty breathing, open-mouthed breathing, coughing, severe dental infections and change in appetite. The kitten may have discharge from its nose or eyes, or both. Its breathing may be noisy or sound "wet."
Causes
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A feline sinus infection can be the result of allergies, respiratory infections, injuries, fungal infections or a tooth abscess. Bacteria and viruses enter the kitten's sinus cavity and cause discomfort and illness. The kitten can even catch a cold from another cat, which leads to a sinus infection.
Veterinary Treatment
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It's best to take your kitten to a veterinarian if you suspect it is suffering from a sinus infection. The vet will do a quick exam and prescribe antibiotics to discontinue infection. A decongestant may also be prescribed to help the kitten breathe better. X-rays or blood work may be done on the kitten to rule out other illnesses or to determine the severity of the sinus infection. If you delay taking your kitten to the vet, the infection will get worse and may result in your kitten needing surgery to allow for nasal drainage.
Home Treatment
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Keep an eye on your kitten so that if the condition worsens, you will be able to inform the vet. Make sure the kitten is eating and drinking adequately, and watch that the nasal discharge does not become thick or yellow in color. The kitten needs to be able to breathe comfortably, so wipe its nose gently with a moistened cotton ball to clear away any discharge or crusts. If its nose is chapped, or to prevent it from becoming chapped, try putting a drop of baby oil on his nose. Ask your vet if the use of a vaporizer will help.
Recovery
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Your kitten may show immediate signs of improvement after beginning treatment for a sinus infection. Depending on the severity of the kitten's sinus infection, full recovery can take up to a month. Remember, your kitten's condition can quickly worsen, so monitor its progress until you are certain he is fully recovered.
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