Cat Sneezing
Cat sneezing around our house is about on a par with people sneezing. It doesn't happen often, and then not for long. Consequently, when our cat sneezes, we tend not to worry about it, and apparently neither does the cat. The sneezing is just a normal part of everyday life, and it's just that there is something slightly irritating or tickling in the cat's respiratory system. The sneeze takes care of it.
More frequent, or extended periods of cat sneezing are, on the other hand, legitimate causes for concern. The sneezing may still be caused by something that is simply irritating the cat's system, or it could be a symptom of something far worse. If you have an indoor cat, it's sneezing, if not frequent, can be caused by the same things that make you sneeze. Being a curious animal, the cat spends part of its time exploring places around the house. The presence of dust, mold, or residual household chemicals such as cleaning products, can irritate the cat's respiratory system and bring on a sneezing episode. This could of course ultimately become serious, and possibly lead to infection if the source is not removed.
An upper respiratory infection is the most common cause of extended sneezing episodes. These infections are caused by viruses, tend to be contagious, and most likely occur if your cat has come into contact with other animals. Symptoms of these viral infections often include mucus discharge, swelling around the eyes, and occasionally, coughing. Upper respiratory infections can also be bacteria caused, Bordatella being an example. Some bacterial infections can spread to humans as well.
If the cat sneezing episodes are somewhat infrequent, or occur at certain times of the year, an allergic reaction to some substance could well be the cause. Observing your cat's daily routine and habits, together with any changes in the weather or environment, could give a clue to the case of the problem. Dental problems, such as an abscess, can often lead to sneezing episodes. Finally, some cats, flat-faced cats such as the Persian, are more susceptible to respiratory problems, including sneezing, than are the longer faced breeds.
Two of the more serious causes behind sneezing episodes are the female leukemia virus and feline herpes. Cats are generally vaccinated against these diseases, but still contract them on occasion. Both diseases are incurable, but can be controlled and the symptoms can be treated. Cancer in the respiratory system is another serious disease, a symptom being the cat sneezing up blood. A cat can sneeze up blood for less serious reasons but certainly a trip to the vet is called for should this symptom occur.
As a rule of thumb, as cat sneezing episodes become more frequent, of longer duration, or more intense, the greater the need to get in touch with your veterinarian. Do not let the more severe sneezing episodes go unnoticed or unattended, as something very serious could be wrong with your cat. The occasional sneeze, once a day or less? Don't worry about it.