A runny nose in cats is fairly common, but it can also be a sign of something more serious. Sometimes it’s nothing to worry about, but other times it indicates an underlying health problem that needs veterinary attention.
Understanding the possible causes, symptoms, and treatment options for a cat’s runny nose is important for all cat owners. We’ll walk you through everything you need to know about your cat’s runny nose and what you can do about it.
We’ll cover the possible causes of nasal discharge in cats, how to recognize the symptoms, how a vet will diagnose the problem, and what treatments are available. Plus, we’ll give you tips for home care and how to prevent a runny nose in the first place. Most importantly, we’ll explain when it’s time to see a vet if your cat has a runny nose.
Decoding the Drip: What Does a Runny Nose in Cats Look Like?
When your cat has a runny nose, the color and consistency of the discharge can tell you a lot about what’s going on. Here’s a quick guide:
- Clear, watery discharge (serous): This is often a sign of allergies or a mild viral infection.
- Thick, yellow or green discharge (mucopurulent): This usually means your cat has a bacterial or fungal infection.
- Bloody discharge (hemorrhagic): This is serious and needs immediate veterinary attention.
Also, watch for other signs like sneezing, discharge from the eyes, and loss of appetite.
Common Culprits: Identifying the Causes of a Cat’s Runny Nose
A runny nose in your cat can be alarming, and it could be a sign of several different conditions. Here are some of the most common causes:
Upper Respiratory Infections (URIs)
Often called “cat colds,” upper respiratory infections are a frequent cause of runny noses in cats. The usual suspects are viruses such as feline herpesvirus (FHV-1) and feline calicivirus (FCV). Along with the snuffles, you might see symptoms like sneezing, coughing, eye discharge, and lethargy.
Bacterial infections can sometimes follow a viral infection, so it’s a good idea to have your vet take a look if your cat is exhibiting URI symptoms.
Allergies
Just like us, cats can be allergic to things in their environment or even to ingredients in their food. Common allergens include pollen, dust mites, and certain food ingredients. If your cat has allergies, you might notice itching, sneezing, and a clear, watery nasal discharge.
Dental Disease
It might seem strange, but dental disease can be linked to nasal issues in cats. If an infection starts in the teeth, it can spread to the nasal passages. Other signs of dental disease include bad breath, drooling, and difficulty eating.
Other Causes
There are some less common reasons why your cat might have a runny nose, including:
- Nasal polyps
- Foreign bodies in the nasal passages
- Nasal tumors
- Inhaled irritants like smoke or perfumes
- Trauma to the nose
What other symptoms should I look for?
A runny nose by itself might not be cause for alarm, but it’s important to watch for other symptoms. These can give you clues about what’s making your cat sick.
Here are a few things to look out for:
- Eye discharge (conjunctivitis): This can be a sign of a viral or bacterial infection.
- Decreased appetite and lethargy: This may point to a more serious illness.
- Difficulty breathing: This needs immediate veterinary attention.
- Facial swelling or pawing at the face: This could mean dental problems or a foreign object stuck in your cat’s face.
When to seek help
A simple runny nose might clear up on its own, but it’s important to know when your cat needs to see a vet. If the runny nose lasts for more than a few days, it’s time to schedule an appointment.
You should also seek veterinary care if you notice any of these signs:
- Colored nasal discharge (yellow, green, or bloody)
- Difficulty breathing
- Loss of appetite or lethargy
- Facial swelling
- Fever
Getting your cat prompt veterinary care is essential for a good outcome.
Diagnosis and Treatment: What to Expect at the Vet
To determine why your cat has a runny nose, your veterinarian will likely perform a thorough physical exam, including an examination of your cat’s mouth.
Diagnostic Procedures
Other diagnostic procedures may include:
- Bloodwork to check your cat’s overall health and look for signs of infection
- Radiographs (X-rays) to examine the nasal passages and sinuses
- Rhinoscopy, where a small camera is used to see inside your cat’s nasal passages
- Cytology or biopsy to collect samples to look at under a microscope
Treatment Options
The treatment your veterinarian recommends will depend on the underlying cause of the runny nose. Treatment options include:
- Antibiotics for bacterial infections
- Antivirals for viral infections
- Antifungals for fungal infections
- Antihistamines or anti-inflammatories for allergies
- Surgery to remove polyps, foreign bodies, or tumors
- Dental cleaning or extractions for dental disease
Home care for a cat with a runny nose
If your cat has a runny nose, you can do a few things to make them more comfortable. Keep them warm and cozy, and gently wipe away any nasal discharge with a soft, damp cloth. A humidifier can also help loosen up any congestion.
Make sure your cat has access to fresh water at all times, and tempt them to eat with soft, delicious food. If your cat won’t eat, contact your veterinarian to rule out more serious issues.
Never give your cat any medications or supplements without talking to your vet first, as some medications can be toxic to cats.
How to keep your cat’s nose healthy
There are a few simple things you can do to prevent your cat from getting a runny nose:
- Keep your cat’s vaccinations current.
- Limit contact with other cats, especially if they seem sick.
- Keep your house clean and sanitary.
- Reduce allergens in your home, if possible.
- Feed your cat a high-quality, nutritionally balanced diet.
It’s also a good idea to bring your cat in for regular checkups so your veterinarian can catch any problems early.
The Bottom Line
A runny nose is a common problem in cats and can have several causes. Closely observe your cat’s symptoms, and don’t hesitate to seek veterinary care. Supportive home care can also help your cat feel better.
With prompt diagnosis and treatment, most cats recover completely from a runny nose.