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My 5-month-old cat has runny eyes & sneezes. Allergies or serious?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 5 months and 8 days old | 5 lbs

My 5 month old cat has runny eyes (clear color) and sneezing a lot. Is it allergies or something more serious?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on January 16th, 2017

You are correct that Leia could have allergies, but it could also be a respiratory infection. I would have her seen by a vet first thing in the morning. The vet may prescribe her some medications that may help with her symptoms, and I can give you some things you can do at home for her. 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.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Marlow Ball, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on October 29th, 2017

    I am suspicious of upper respiratory and this could be contagious to other cats. Would recommend you quarantine Toonces from other cats and bring him to see your vet Monday. Make sure he is eating and drinking. If this is viral then he may not need antibiotics but it could come back during stressful events in the future. Hope this helps.

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