My 6-month-old kitten has loud, congested breathing. What should I do?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 5 months and 13 days old | 8 lbs
I've had my 6 month old kitten for 2 weeks and she has begun to breathe loudly the past two days. She sounds very congested/stuffy nose and is only quiet when she is asleep. Her breathing can get squeaky and can be heard from upstairs. She was vaccinated at the shelter and last week was given an allergy shot. I do have a 5 year old indoor cat that has not expressed any health problems. Is there something to treat the congestion? Thank you!
2 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on January 12th, 2020
Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Nomi. It sounds like she could have a respiratory infection. You should have her seen by a vet for this, and I can give you some things you can go at home for her. Please know that what I'm giving you at home cannot replace a vet visit. First, you can try starting her on an L-lysine supplement - this is an amino acid that has been shown to help the immune system fight off respiratory infections more effectively. Enisyl and Viralys are both good brands, and can be purchased over the counter without a prescription - just follow the dosing instructions on the label based on your cat's weight. 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. I hope this helps!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on September 23rd, 2018
Hi Rich! Podo is simply gorgeous! I have a Ragdoll as well, and they are the best cats. Yes it's possible that she could be congested, and it may be she has a respiratory infection. I would have her checked out by a vet for this, as there may be medications that can help with her symptoms. At home, you can try bringing her into the bathroom when you take a shower or putting her in a room with a humidifier. The steam from either may help with the congestion. It's not an emergency to take her into a vet, have her seen in the next couple of days, but if she gets really congested, stops eating, becomes lethargic, and/or has difficulty breathing, rush her into a vet immediately. Best of luck, I hope this helps!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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