My cat is sneezing, has a runny nose, and breathing hard. What should I do?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Female | spayed | 6 months and 18 days old | 5.46 lbs
Cat has been sneezing, and has a running nose and breathing heavy, should I be worried?
4 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on December 16th, 2018
Yes, I would be concerned. It sounds like Rosey could have a respiratory infection. I'd take her into a vet as soon as possible to get checked out, as I'm concerned about her breathing heavily. Rush her into an ER vet if she starts open mouth breathing. 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. Best of luck.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on January 16th, 2020
Hello, congratulations on your new cat. It sounds like she has an upper respiratory tract infection which are common especially in cats coming from shelters. She may need antibiotics as some of agents that cause this infection can be bacterial in origin (chlamydia). Other common agents include feline herpesvirus or feline calicivirus. Hope this helps and best of luck.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on May 18th, 2020
Sneezing can be due to a number of different conditions, including upper respiratory infections (most are viral), allergies, nasal polyps, or other conditions. It sounds as though you're monitoring Raven closely, which is great! I'm glad to hear that you've been using a humidifier. Warm mist humidifiers tend to be a bit more helpful than the cool mist varieties. Likewise, a steamy bathroom can have a similar effect. If Raven starts to have any discharge blocking her nostrils, you can use a damp wash cloth to clear them. There aren't any other home remedies that are safe or effective. If her condition continues or worsens, she will need veterinary attention. Consider looking into house call or mobile vets in your area if she's really resistant to a carrier. For the future, consider training Raven to acclimate to her carrier. This involves leaving the carrier out all of the time so that it just becomes a normal part of her surroundings. You can also try putting high-value treats inside while leaving the door open for her to explore. I hope that this helps and that Raven is on the mend soon!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on July 20th, 2017
Hi, it sounds like Frida (love the name) could have caught an upper respiratory infection. the other cat might not be showing symptoms yet but may or may not get sick as well with it. You may see coughing, sneezing and labored breathing. She will need to go to the vet to get some medication for this. For the time being, you can use human over the counter nasal spray and put one drop each into her nostril. Make sure the nostrils are clear first with a cloth and some warm water. Offer her good tasting food because when they have nasal symptoms they cannot smell as well and sometimes they don't eat. Watch for labored breathing, this is a sign she needs to see an emergency vet. Good luck, I hope this helps!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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