Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My cat is sneezing and stressed about vet visits. Can I sedate him?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male

Hi my cat keeps sneezing and rubbing his nose, some swallowing but not much, he is a 1 person cat and acts wild around other people and in carrier so I'm always scared to take him vets. Is this something to worry about and if so is there any medicine to calm him down to be put in a carrier and taken, thank you

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on February 13th, 2018

This appears to be an upper respiratory infection. These are often due to a virus that is usually self-limiting (will go away on its own) - much like a cold with people. These can become worse and complicated with bacterial infections, so if Cooper is having issues with congestion, or starts to develop yellow/green nose or eye discharge, then it will be best to take him to a vet for an accurate diagnosis and treatment. It's possible to ask your vet for a sedative to get him in the carrier, but most vets are very cautious about giving a medication before seeing a cat. Otherwise, the vet will be able to give sedation at the vet office if he's too difficult to handle. There are no over the counter medications or supplements that are effective for sedating a cat. For now, make sure he is comfortable and free of any stressful situations. These infections often happen in times of stress, so if there was a potential new stressor, then try your best to remove it. If he is congested, then you can do a steam bath at home. Below is a link to an article that explains this and has helpful info about cat upper respiratory disease. http://www.wikihow.com/Help-Your-Cat-Breathe-Easier I hope that helps and Cooper gets better soon.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What to do if my cat has a small hole with pus coming from its ear?
Is your cat's ear hole oozing pus? A Petco vet explains potential infections like abscesses from bites, advising immediate vet care, antibiotics, and recovery.
Updated on September 23, 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