Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My cat is sneezing a lot. What can I do to help his cold symptoms?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered

My cat is sneezing a lot but he doesn't have trouble breathing and is very active. What can I do to help stop the cold?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on November 6th, 2016

Most upper respiratory issues in cats are due to a viral infection, so it's best to give an anti-viral supplement to help. You can give Sivko over the counter Lysine powder or gel from your local pet store or vet clinic daily to help ward off the symptoms. If he doesn't get better or starts having breathing issues, then a secondary bacterial infection is likely so it's best to have him seen by your veterinarian for further care. Also you can inquire with your vet about nasal drops that can help his sneezing symptoms.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 22nd, 2019

    You can try using a humidifier for the next few days to see if this clears up his airway. Also cats are susceptible to getting viral infections, so its a good idea to start an anti-viral supplement to help boost his immune system. You can find Lysine powder/gel/capusles at most pet stores and can start that right away. If he is still not doing well after 3-4 days or seems to get worse at any point, its best to have him seen by your local vet for further treatment. Secondary bacterial infections are common as well, which would then require a short course of antibiotics prescribed by your vet. I hope that Garbie feels better soon! Best wishes and take care.

    Vote icon

    2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 4th, 2020

    Poor Peto. He will need to see a vet for medications, and I can give you some things to do at home. Please know that these things cannot take the place of a vet visit. First, you can try starting him on an L-lysine supplement - this is an amino acid that has been shown to help the immune system fight off respiratory infections more effectively. Enisyl and Viralys are both good brands, and can be purchased over the counter without a prescription - just follow the dosing instructions on the label based on your cat's weight. If he's congested, you can also try using a humidifier or bringing him into the bathroom with the door closed while you take a hot shower - the steam and humidity help to break up congestion and temporarily relieve symptoms associated with respiratory infections.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
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 degu has trouble breathing, coughing, and nose discharge. Help?
Is your degu struggling to breathe, coughing, or have nasal discharge? A trusted vet offers vital guidance on respiratory issues like pneumonia and how to help.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My rat is losing weight and has breathing issues. What should I do?
Dambo's weight loss, rough breathing, and mucus worry you? A Petco veterinarian addresses these concerning symptoms and recommends urgent professional care.
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
image
Have A Vet Question?

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

Book Now

Sponsored