If you’ve ever wondered, “Why is my cat sneezing so much?” you’re not alone. Cats sneeze for many reasons—some harmless, others more concerning. A recent YouTube video titled “Why Does My CAT SNEEZE a Lot? 🤧😿 These Are the 8 Main Causes!” from AnimalWised sheds light on the most common triggers behind frequent or persistent sneezing in cats. In today’s blog, we expand on those insights to help pet parents better understand when sneezing is normal, when it’s a sign of illness, and what steps to take next.
If you're a pet owner committed to keeping a clean and healthy home, you can also explore natural cleaning solutions on the Good Natured Brand main page and our blog for more pet wellness guides.
The Natural Purpose of Sneezing in Cats
Sneezing is the body’s built-in respiratory defense system. Much like humans, cats sneeze to clear their nasal passages of dust, debris, microorganisms, or irritants. An occasional sneeze is perfectly normal—often caused by something as simple as a whiff of pepper, a bit of dust, or a tickle in the nose.
However, when sneezing becomes frequent, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms, it may indicate a deeper issue requiring veterinary attention.
Viral Infections: The Leading Cause of Frequent Sneezing in Cats
One of the most common explanations for repetitive sneezing—especially in kittens—is viral infection. The two main culprits are:
Feline Herpes Virus Type 1 (FHV-1)
A primary cause of feline rhinotracheitis, this virus often affects both the nasal passages and eyes. Once a cat contracts herpes virus, it may experience recurring flare-ups throughout life, particularly during times of stress.
Feline Calicivirus (FCV)
Calicivirus primarily affects the oral cavity but can also produce respiratory symptoms. Cats may experience sneezing, mouth ulcers, runny noses, and lethargy.
Symptoms Often Include:
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Sneezing fits
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Nasal discharge (clear or cloudy)
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Red or watery eyes (especially with herpes virus)
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Poor appetite
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Lethargy
What You Should Do:
Treatment typically includes supportive care such as fluids, vitamins, antiviral medication, and appetite stimulants. If your cat’s environment contains irritants like chemical cleaning sprays, switching to natural alternatives—such as pet-friendly all-purpose cleaners—can help minimize flare-ups.
Bacterial Infections: When Sneezing Comes With Fever or Lethargy
Bacterial infections may occur as primary infections or appear secondary to viral illness, especially in cats with weakened immune systems.
Common bacteria involved include:
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Bordetella bronchiseptica
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Chlamydia felis
Symptoms Often Include:
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Excessive sneezing
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Fever
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Thick, mucopurulent (yellow or green) nasal discharge
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Lethargy
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Loss of appetite
What You Should Do:
A veterinarian may perform culture and sensitivity testing (antibiogram) to determine the right antibiotic treatment.
Maintaining a clean environment can help reduce respiratory irritants. Natural cleaners—like our All-Purpose Cleaner—are gentler on sensitive noses.
Fungal Infections: Less Common but More Serious
Fungal infections such as Cryptococcus can invade the nasal passages and sinuses. Though less common, these infections can be severe and require prompt care.
Symptoms Often Include:
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Nasal swelling
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Pain around the sinuses
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Chronic nasal discharge
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Difficulty breathing
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Formation of granulomas
What You Should Do:
Treatment may involve long-term antifungal medications (like fluconazole) and sometimes surgical removal of granulomas.
Foreign Bodies: When Something Is Stuck in the Nose
Outdoor cats or playful house cats may inhale small objects, grass seeds, or debris that become lodged in their nasal cavity.
Symptoms Often Include:
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Sudden onset of intense sneezing
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Pawing at the face
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Possible nosebleed
What You Should Do:
Do not attempt to remove the object yourself. A vet can safely extract it, stopping the irritation instantly.
Nasal Trauma: Injuries That Trigger Sneezing
Cats that roughhouse, fall, or collide with hard objects may injure their noses, leading to inflammation and frequent sneezing.
Symptoms Often Include:
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Continuous sneezing
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Swelling around the nose
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Possible sensitivity when touched
What You Should Do:
Veterinary examination ensures proper healing and assessment for fractures or internal damage.
Allergies: Environmental Triggers That Make Your Cat Sneeze
Cats can develop allergies to:
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Dust
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Mites
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Pollen
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Smoke
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Strong perfumes
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Chemical cleaning products
If you use harsh spray cleaners around your home, they may be irritating your cat’s sensitive respiratory system. Consider switching to natural cleaning alternatives such as:
These plant-derived options help reduce allergy triggers, keeping your cat more comfortable.
Symptoms Often Include:
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Sneezing shortly after exposure to an allergen
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Itchy skin or eyes
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Occasional coughing
What You Should Do:
A veterinarian may prescribe immunomodulatory drugs or recommend allergen reduction strategies.
Nasal Tumors: Persistent Sneezing That Shouldn’t Be Ignored
Although less common, benign or malignant tumors can form inside the nasal cavity and obstruct airflow.
Symptoms Often Include:
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Persistent sneezing
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Loud breathing
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Nasal discharge (sometimes bloody)
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Facial swelling
What You Should Do:
Treatment options vary and may include surgery, radiotherapy, or chemotherapy.
Stress and Irritants: Environmental Factors That Cause Sneezing
Just like humans, cats can react to sudden changes or stressors. Situations such as moving homes, loud noises, and exposure to irritants like smoke or scented sprays may trigger sneezing.
Switching to non-toxic, fragrance-free home products—such as our naturally scented Carpet Deodorizers or gentle Laundry Powders—may help reduce overstimulation of your cat’s sensitive nose.
When Sneezing Signals Illness: Symptoms to Watch Closely
Frequent sneezing combined with any of the following symptoms indicates a veterinary visit is necessary:
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Persistent or intense sneezing
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Thick or colored nasal discharge
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Fever
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Lethargy
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Loss of appetite
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Swelling around the nose or sinuses
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Watery or irritated eyes
These signs often point to infections, inflammation, or underlying diseases that require professional diagnosis.
Treatment Options Your Veterinarian May Recommend
Depending on the cause, potential treatments include:
For Viral Infections
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Supportive care (fluids, nutritional support)
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Antiviral eye drops or oral medications
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Omega interferon in some cases
For Bacterial Infections
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Antibiotics tailored after culture testing
For Fungal Infections
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Antifungal medications
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Surgical removal of granulomas
For Allergies
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Immunomodulatory drugs
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Environmental modifications
For Foreign Bodies
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Professional removal
For Tumors
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Surgery
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Radiotherapy or chemotherapy
Your veterinarian will determine the most appropriate course of action.
Keeping Your Home Cat-Friendly and Clean
While preventing sneezing entirely isn’t always possible, you can create a home environment that’s gentler on your cat’s respiratory system.
Switching to non-toxic, plant-based cleaning products—like our All-Purpose Cleaners, Carpet Deodorizers, and Laundry Powders—reduces exposure to chemical irritants and keeps your home fresh without compromising your pet’s health.
Browse more cat-friendly cleaning tips and wellness guides on our Good Natured Brand blog.
Final Thoughts: When in Doubt, Talk to Your Vet
Frequent sneezing in cats isn’t something to ignore. While the occasional “achoo” is perfectly natural, ongoing sneezing often indicates viral infection, bacterial illness, allergies, fungal complications, or environmental irritants.
The AnimalWised video “Why Does My CAT SNEEZE a Lot? 🤧😿 These Are the 8 Main Causes!” highlights how early detection and professional care make all the difference. If your cat is showing additional symptoms—such as nasal discharge, fever, loss of appetite, or lethargy—seek veterinary advice as soon as possible.
A healthy cat starts with a healthy home. Explore our pet-friendly cleaning essentials and wellness guides to keep your environment safe for every furry family member.
