K-W Humane Society

Dear Star,
My cat recently started sneezing a lot. Is it cold and flu season for cats too?

From,
Concerned Cat Lover,
age 36, Waterloo

Dear concerned:

You don’t have to worry; your cat probably doesn’t have a cold or the flu, especially if he has only been sneezing for a while. Here are some reasons why your cat might be sneezing a lot:

•    Dust, pollen, or other airborne particles: These can cause sinus irritation in cats, just like they can in people. Sometimes our owners can unintentionally put a lot of irritating particles in the air by doing things like lighting a candle, turning on the heat or air conditioner after not using it for a season, keeping windows open, dusting, or lighting a fire in the fireplace. Maybe Mom just needs to clean more often!
•    Allergies: Though allergies often cause skin problems with us, they can also cause a runny nose, itchy eyes, and sneezing. Your cat may be allergic to something new in his diet, a new cleaning product, or something as simple as pollen.
•    Cigarette smoke: This is actually the most common cause of respiratory problems in cats. Another reason to not smoke!
•    Infection: Has your kitty been boarded or groomed or around new cats lately? She may have picked up an upper respiratory viral or bacterial infection from another cat. Respiratory infections can have effects much like human colds and sinus infections. If you think your cat might have an infection you should take them to see their Vet. I don’t always like going to the Vet but I know she makes me feel better in the long run.
•    Dental problems: The sinuses are closely connected to the roots of the teeth. If a tooth root is infected or inflamed, it can easily cause drainage into the sinuses and lead to sneezing.

These are only some of the top reasons why cats sneeze. If your cat doesn't seem better in the next few days, you should take him to your Vet for a thorough check up.