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Cat panting, sneezing, watery eyes, mouth breathing: What's wrong?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 4 lbs

My cat is panting well She is breathing through her mouth not nose she has watery eyes sneezing a lot and doesn't seem to be breathing out of her nose what could this be?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By C. Rathjens, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on February 15th, 2018

Marsha could have a upper respiratory infection (basically a cold) or could have something going on with her heart or lungs. I'm assuming she's young based on her weight, and that, in combination with her watery eyes and sneezing, makes me more suspicious of the respiratory infection (but she would need a physical exam and possibly chest x-rays to be sure). Young cats get viral infections very commonly, and sometimes a bacterial infection starts after the virus is replicating. If it gets bad enough, she might need antibiotics, but sometimes just supportive care is enough. If she's lethargic and not eating, I would recommend a vet visit tomorrow. If she's unable to rest comfortably tonight, I would recommend going to an emergency clinic to make sure she's getting enough oxygen. Best of luck! I hope Marsha is feeling better soon. Let me know if this was helpful information and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

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