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My new kitten sneezes, breathes heavy. Is it a chest infection or herpes?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Longhair | Male | neutered | 3 lbs

I recently adopted a kitten (12 weeks old) from the SPCA and I’m worried he may have a chest infection. When we got him 2 weeks ago i noticed that he sneezes often (not attacks but several here and there) and I noticed today that his breathing seems heavier when he’s asleep. Should i take him to the vet sooner than his appointment in 2 weeks? I’ve also read a lot about feline herpes which kind of fit those symptoms, so I’m wondering if I should be watching for more symptoms of that?

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1 Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on September 19th, 2018

Congrats on your new kitten, Gilligan is so adorable!! If his breathing is heavier only when he's asleep, it could be in reaction to dreams. I'd keep his appointment in two weeks for now, but if you notice he's breathing heavier when awake, he develops a snotty nasal discharge, there is a discharge from his eyes, he starts coughing, becomes lethargic, and/or his appetite decreases, then I would take him into the vet sooner. Best of luck, I hope this helps!

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