Senior cat has breathing issues, sneezing, congestion. OTC options?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Female | spayed | 18 years and 2 months old | 6 lbs
My 18 year old cat has been having periodic breathing issues sneezing, and congestion, at this point it seems obvious she has seasonal allergies. However, being 18 years old and I don’t have the money to put her through the extensive allergy investigations and treatments. What are my options? Are there over-the-counter options I can give her?
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on April 13th, 2019
Hi, and thanks for your question. This sign could be compatible with an upper respiratory tract inflammation/infection or possibly to a chronic rhinitis (inflammatory, allergic, infective). A clinical examination at your local veterinarian is essential to confirm these clinical suspicions and treat appropriately. Antibiotics or antiallergic (steroids medications) may be needed. It is not necessary to perform expensive tests as treatment can be attempted to resolve the problem. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further. If this answer was helpful please let us know, this will be used to improve our service!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on January 6th, 2018
Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Frankie is adorable! The signs you describe can be caused by an upper respiratory infection or polyps. Nasopharyngeal (basically meaning the deeper part of the nose) polyps are very common in cats and a benign, however can cause trouble breathing. I recommend having Frankie seen by a vet if the symptoms continue for another day or so. Your vet can perform bloodwork and x-rays, and remove the polyps if Frankie has them. I hope this helps and that all is well!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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