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Cat sneezing
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.
Key takeaways
- Human cold viruses usually do not infect cats. Feline 'cat flu' is caused by feline herpesvirus and calicivirus spread between cats — common in multi-cat homes and rescues.
- Book a vet visit if sneezing lasts more than a few days, includes coloured or bloody discharge, eye ulcers, open-mouth breathing, reduced appetite, or affects kittens and unvaccinated cats.
The full guide
Causes, symptoms, treatment options and when to call your vet — in the complete plain-English guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why is my cat sneezing?
- Dust, litter particles, perfume, and pollen cause occasional sneezes. Persistent sneezing with nasal discharge, eye watering, or fever often indicates feline upper respiratory infection, chronic rhinitis, or dental disease.
- Can cats catch colds from humans?
- Human cold viruses usually do not infect cats. Feline 'cat flu' is caused by feline herpesvirus and calicivirus spread between cats — common in multi-cat homes and rescues.
- When should I take my sneezing cat to the vet?
- Book a vet visit if sneezing lasts more than a few days, includes coloured or bloody discharge, eye ulcers, open-mouth breathing, reduced appetite, or affects kittens and unvaccinated cats.