# Why Is My Cat Sneezing UK? — Quick answer

PETHEALTH+ (https://pethealth.org.uk/health/why-is-my-cat-sneezing-uk): Why Is My Cat Sneezing UK? — Quick answer. Occasional sneezing is normal — dust, litter, or strong scents trigger a reflex. Persistent sneezing with discharge, eye problems, fever, or appetite loss needs a vet — often feline upper respiratory infection (cat flu), dental disease, or chronic rhinitis. Kittens and unvaccinated cats need prompt assessment.

PETHEALTH+ (https://pethealth.org.uk/health/why-is-my-cat-sneezing-uk): Why Is My Cat Sneezing UK? — Normal sneezing vs illness. A single sneeze clears the nose — like in people. UK indoor cats may sneeze after: - Dusty litter or renovation dust - Strong perfume, spray, or cleaning products - Pollen in open windows during spring Concerning patterns: - Sneezing many times daily for more than 3–5 days - Yellow, green, or bloody nasal discharge - Eye discharge or squinting — ulcer risk - Open-mouth breathing — see Cat breathing fast - Not eating or lethargy - Kittens from shelters — fast progression

PETHEALTH+ (https://pethealth.org.uk/health/why-is-my-cat-sneezing-uk): Why Is My Cat Sneezing UK? — Common causes in UK cats. Feline upper respiratory infection (cat flu) According to the PDSA, feline herpesvirus (FHV-1) and calicivirus (FCV) cause the classic "cat cold" — sneezing, runny nose, conjunctivitis, mouth ulcers in some FCV strains. Spread occurs in: - Multi-cat households - Boarding catteries - Rescue centres Vaccination reduces severity but does not prevent all strains. See Cat respiratory infection UK. ### Chronic rhinitis Some cats develop long-term nasal inflammation after earlier flu — intermittent sneezing and congestion for life. Management is veterinary — not repeated human cold medicines. ### Dental disease Tooth root abscesses can drain into the nasal cavity — sneezing with one-sided discharge and mouth pain. Cat dental care prevents many cases. ### Foreign body Grass seeds or litter lodged in the nose cause sudden violent sneezing — one nostril often affected. ### Allergies Less common than in dogs but environmental allergies occur — seasonal pattern, itch, or clear discharge.

PETHEALTH+ (https://pethealth.org.uk/health/why-is-my-cat-sneezing-uk): Why Is My Cat Sneezing UK? — What not to do. - Never give human cold medicines — paracetamol kills cats (cat paracetamol guide) - Do not delay kittens with eye/nose discharge — dehydration develops quickly

PETHEALTH+ (https://pethealth.org.uk/health/why-is-my-cat-sneezing-uk): Why Is My Cat Sneezing UK? — Vet diagnosis and treatment. Your vet may check: - Temperature and lymph nodes - Eyes and mouth for ulcers - Teeth and gums - Consider swabs or imaging in chronic cases Treatment may include: - Antibiotics for secondary bacterial infection - Antiviral or eye drops — vet prescribed only - Fluids and feeding support if not eating - Dental extractions if tooth root disease

Source: https://pethealth.org.uk/health/why-is-my-cat-sneezing-uk