Why are all my cats sneezing with red noses? Is it contagious?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
My new cat is sneezing and has a red nose, now my other cat are sneezing with red noses
3 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on February 24th, 2015
It sounds like they might have a viral upper respiratory infection. Initial symptoms appear 2-17 days after exposure and reach maximum severity about 10 days later. Typically, your cat will have severe bouts of sneezing lasting 1-2 days, followed by conjunctivitis, watery discharge from the eyes and nose, fever, apathy, and loss of appetite. Some cats may have only mild symptoms, while other cats can become quite ill. Most cats with an uncomplicated upper respiratory infection can be treated symptomatically at home. Home care includes keeping your cats warm and comfortable and making sure they are eating and drinking. Offer highly palatable foods with a strong smell, such as fish-flavored canned foods or strained chicken or turkey baby food. Clean secretions from the eyes, nose, and mouth with moist cotton balls as often as needed. Humidify the air with a vaporizer or humidifier. Seek prompt medical attention for any cat that has mucoid or purulent discharge from the eyes or nose as it may have a bacterial infection. Also seek veterinary attention if one of your cats is refusing to eat or drink, is losing weight, has a high fever, seems weak, develops vomiting or diarrhea, or is having trouble breathing.
33Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on February 7th, 2019
Hello. Frida has an upper respiratory virus, but as long as she is not acting sick, eating & drinking well, playing normally, then there is no need to worry very much. Most of these viruses run their course in 10-14 days. If, however, she quits eating, develops a mucopurulent nasal or eye discharge & becomes lethargic, then see your vet, but sneezing is not unusual in a young cat. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on November 21st, 2017
I would be worried about an upper respiratory tract infection in your cat. Cats can commonly be afflicted by upper respiratory viruses that can cause sneezing, nasal discharge, conjunctivitis and corneal ulcers. These viruses can be latent in a cat's system and then in times of stress (like moving in to a new environment or a change in household dynamics) they can cause illness. This is what I suspect is going on with your cat. Oftentimes cats can overcome a viral flare up on their own but sometimes they need antiviral drugs, eye medications, and possibly antibiotics to help them get over the virus. If the illness lasts more than 3-5 days, or if your car stops eating then I would take her in to the vet. I hope this helps. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Best of luck!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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