Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Why is my cat sneezing, drooling, hacking, and shaking her head?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | unspayed | 1 year old | 8 lbs

My 1 year old cat has been having little episodes of constant sneezing, excessive drooling which causes her to vigorously shake her head, she's had a couple of hacking spells; she looks miserable, and just isn't herself. Does anyone possibly know what could be wrong?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

Veterinarian

Published on April 27th, 2017

I'm sorry to hear that Princess isn't feeling well. Her sneezing, coughing, lethargy and drooling could all be due to an upper respiratory infection caused by either a virus and/or bacteria. Many cats are chronically infected with herpesvirus and/or calicivirus, which can shed from time to time and cause respiratory signs and secondary bacterial infections. Princess' vet will be able to examine her and determine if she needs antibiotics or other medications. I hope that she's feeling better soon!

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Jeffrey Milner

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Sorry to hear about Princess! Sneezing in a young adult cat is typically due to some sort of upper respiratory infection or environmental allergy. My best guess about the drooling would be to relate it back to the sneezing; each time Princess sneezes she is probably bringing some mucus up into her mouth resulting in drooling. Head shaking in cats typically is also typically related to respiratory infections or in some cases ear infections / ear mites. Based on the hacking cough and sneezing, it appears that your kitty may be in need of some antibiotics or, at the very least, some supportive care. I would check and see if she has a fever, which you can readily due at home with a rectal thermometer. See if her temperature is above 102.5. If there is a true infection, it is unlikely to get better without medication. I would seek veterinary care in order to obtain the appropriate medication. Depending on how Princess looks, they may want to obtain some diagnostics in order to best serve you and her.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 1st, 2017

    I'm sorry to hear that Princess has not been feeling well! The most likely cause of her sneezing, drooling and coughing is an upper respiratory infection (generally viral in origin, but secondary bacterial infections can develop), but could also be due to allergies or severe dental disease. Since she has been feeling so poorly with a slight decrease in her appetite, Princess should be examined by her vet. She may need antibiotics if a bacterial infection is suspected. You can also try taking her into a steamy bathroom for 10-15 minutes at a time to see if that helps to improve any nasal congestion. I hope that she is feeling better soon!

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why does my pet have a crusty nose and sneeze often? Is it serious?
Does your pet have a crusty nose and sneeze often? A certified vet explains potential causes like respiratory issues or rhinitis, stressing the need for a vet visit.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet keeps sneezing. What causes it and when to see a vet?
Is your pet sneezing frequently? A certified veterinarian explains common causes like allergies or respiratory infections. Discover when to see the vet for treatment, possibly an antibiotic course.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Is my pet's occasional sneezing and eye crust a URI symptom?
Is your pet Barry occasionally sneezing or showing eye crust? A trusted vet offers insights on common respiratory concerns and when to seek professional advice.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has worsening sores and scratches. Could it be an infection?
Nike's worsening sores and constant scratching worry his owner. A certified Petco veterinarian offers expert guidance on potential causes like bacterial infections and next steps.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my pet's swollen lump with green patches not getting better?
Is your pet's swollen, green-patched infection still bothering them after treatment? A certified veterinarian discusses proper diagnosis methods like biopsy and FNA.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why do quills seem to migrate deeper into my pet's body over time?
Why do quills migrate deeper into your pet? Licensed Vet Tech Angel Alvarado explains the body's response to foreign objects. Get expert insights from Petco.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored