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Why is my cat sneezing, coughing, and shaking after neuter surgery?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Mediumhair | Male | neutered | 1 year and 4 months old

Cornelius was fixed about a week and a half ago now. In the past he rarely had hairballs. Now he is constantly having hairballs and sneezing/coughing. He still eats and is slightly active. But he also is laying down quite more often and when he sneezes, he starts uncontrollably shaking and makes these sounds I’ve never heard him make before. He was done at a free neuter clinic due to not being able to afford surgery.

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1 Answer

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Answered By Maria DVM

Veterinarian

Published on November 8th, 2017

Cornelius is a very handsome cat! It sounds like he picked up a cold which can be viral but can also have a secondary bacterial component. If it is just a virus it can take a full two weeks to get through his system. If he is lethargic, not eating, the sneezing gets worse or he has nasal/eye discharge I would recommend a veterinarian. At that point he may need antibiotics. I would try to call the spay/neuter clinic you had him neutered at to see if they have a veterinarian that would be able to look at him also. I hope Cornelius feels better soon and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

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