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My adopted cat is sneezing and coughing. Does he need antibiotics?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 3 years and 5 months old | 10 lbs

Lex has been sneezing a lot lately. And now he’s starting coughing. I’m wandering if he has kennel cough ? We adopted about a month ago. And, at first I thought the sneezing was from dust. But it’s not going away. He’s had all of his shots. And tested for leukemia. But he’s had this weird cough since we brought him home. And the lady from the shelter said it was nothing. Well I think, it’s something! He seems happy and playing. But, he's sneezing and coughing. Does he need a antibiotic?

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 21st, 2021

Hello, thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. It sounds like Lex probably does have an upper respiratory infection. Very common in cats that come from a shelter setting even if they are vaccinated. I suggest you take him to a vet and do not go by what the shelter lady is telling you. He most likely does need antibiotics. Coughing is not really normal even if they have an upper respiratory infection so that is a bit concerning and it's best to have him checked out. Hope this helps. Best wishes.

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