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My kitten has watery eyes, stuffy nose, sneezing. Should I see a vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 7 months and 13 days old | 6 lbs

My 7 month old kitten has been suffering from a watery eye (no color in discharge - just clear), stuffy nose, and sneezing for about a week now. She’s been drinking, eating (not as much as usual), and using her litter box. I gave her some can food today that she could smell over her stuffy nose and she gobbled it up. She’s also been more lethargic and not her normal playful self. Should this cold be ridden out at home or should I take her to the vet for treatment?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Daniela Jessen, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 14th, 2019

Hi, It sounds like possible upper respiratory infection , "cat flu" . I would recommend to be mindful with weeping eyes which can quickly become more severe and may develop corneal ulcer. Also since it has been a week I would suggest to take her to the vet who can offer some supportive treatment to speed up her recovery (such as antibiotic adainst secondary infection , antiviral meds systemic or tropical ocular amd Pain relief ). Keep offering her soft, highly aromatic foods (as you are doing) that are gently warmed will help to tempt an inappetent cat and make sure she is hydrated and drinking. Cat flu is not usually serious in adult cats, although they can be quite ill so help by a vet would be advised at this point.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Thank you for contacting Pet Coach with your question about Polly. Poor girl sounds like she is sick, and it may be she has a respiratory infection. You did the right thing by giving her food today that she can smell over her stuffy nose. Cats won't eat if they can't smell their food. Keep doing that, and I would take her into the vet. The vet will likely prescribe medications to help with her symptoms, especially the watery eye. I hope this helps!

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