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My cat is sneezing after spay surgery. Is it a cold or a virus?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | unspayed | 1 year old

I just had my cat spay like 10 days ago - since that time she has developed sneezing. She didn't sneeze at all last spring and summer so I was wondering if could be allergic to something that had to do with the spay? Or something else? Maybe she just has a cold?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. B. DVM, DACVIM (Oncology)

Veterinarian

Published on March 29th, 2019

More then likely she is having a flare up of an upper respiratory virus with the stress of surgery. Most cats are exposed to these viruses, such as cat herpes, and stress can elicit a flare up. Sneezing, runny eyes/nose, congestion, etc. are common. If there is any discoloration to any discharge, cough, or she is not eating well a recheck with your vet is indicated. For most cats however the signs will run their course in 5 to 10 days. I hope this helps and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

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    Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 29th, 2017

    I'm glad to hear that two of the cats recovered from their surgery without any issues, but I am concerned that Gizmo is so lethargic and sneezing. There is a chance that she may have acquired an upper respiratory infection either during or after her surgery. If she has a chronic herpesvirus infection (which is quite common), some stressors, such as surgery, can trigger virus shedding which can lead to infections. Gizmo should be rechecked by her vet to make sure there are no post-operative surgical complications and to assess her respiratory condition. If an upper respiratory infection is diagnosed, she will likely need antibiotics to treat a primary or secondary bacterial infection.

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