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What causes my senior cat's sneezing, stuffy nose, and listlessness?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 6 lbs

My 13 year old cat has IBD. He has been maintaining a low weight and is on steroids (1/2 a pill twice a week). He still has diarrhea but it seems to be getting a bit better. He does not seem to be in any pain. Two days ago he started sneezing. He has clear discharge coming out of his nose. When it crusts up I clean it with warm water on a Q tip. The front tip of his nose was raw and a bit bloody last night. He seems to have a stuffy nose and is listless.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

Veterinary Technician

Published on December 12th, 2018

Poor Peanut! He may have an upper respiratory infection going on, or some other nasal/respiratory irritation, and due to his age and since steroids can affect the immune system, it would be best to bring him to your vet for an exam. They may need to put him on a course of antibiotics or other treatments to help him feel a bit better. Continuing to remove any debris that builds up and trying to entice him to eat as much as possible by warming up his food or adding in a little low-sodium chicken broth if he can handle it may help until you can get to your vet, but care ASAP is best.

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