My cat won't eat, breathes weird, stuffy nose. What can I do?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 3 months and 1 day old | 0.44 lbs
Please help!My cat got an injection against fly poison a few days ago and started to drink water,he moves around,purrs.Today I saw a tiny scratch on the top of his ear but it stopped bleeding.He doesn't want to eat and is breathing weird.I started to think it could be because his nose may be clogged and that's why he doesn't smell the food and doesn't have apetite. Is it because of that and if it is how can I unclog his nose?
4 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on July 21st, 2017
He may have an upper respiratory infection, which is quite common in cats. It is hard to say for sure without examining him myself. You can try using a humidifier to break up any mucous. As an alternative you can place him in the bathroom with the shower running for 5-10 minutes 2 x daily. However he ultimately will likely need antibiotics to clear up any bacterial infection that may be present. I would also recommend getting him on antiviral medication (I.e. lysine powder or gel from your local pet store or vet clinic) to treat for a suspected underlying viral infection. I hope your kitty feels better soon. Best wishes and take care.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on February 18th, 2017
Poor Weasley! He could be suffering from a severe respiratory infection, cardiac disease, or heartworms among other causes. It is concerning that his breathing has gotten heavy sounding and congested, and I would have him seen by a vet as soon as possible. He should have a physical exam, blood tests, urinalysis, and x-rays to diagnose what is causing his symptoms so he can be treated. In the meantime, you can 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.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on September 11th, 2018
I am sorry to hear about your kitten! Give your description it is possible he could have an upper respiratory infection. Sometimes these are viral but sometimes we can also have bacterial infections. In cases where the pet is lethargic and not eating well we do recommend having them examined by their veterinarian to determine if they may need antibiotics or supportive treatment so I would make an appointment for him to be seen by a veterinarian. You can help him by giving him a steam treatment a few times a day by placing him in the bathroom with a hot shower running to create a steamy room for 10 minutes. This can help loosen any congestion. You can read more about respiratory infections at https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4951489
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on October 24th, 2019
Poor Masha. First, you can try starting her 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 she's congested, you can also try using a humidifier or bringing her 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.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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