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Nasal Disease in Cats – An Overview
If your cat sneezes, has a runny nose or seems to have trouble breathing through their nose, they might have a nasal disease. Like people, cats can suffer from different conditions affecting their nasal passages. Let’s break down some common issues, what they mean, and what you can do to help your feline friend feel better.
Common causes of nasal disease in cats
Infections
Various pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, fungi, and other complications such as dental issues, often cause cat nasal infections.
Recognising and addressing these infections early is crucial, as they can lead to chronic conditions and significantly affect a cat’s quality of life.
Common causes of nasal infections in cats
Viral infections:
Feline Herpesvirus (FHV): One of the most common viral culprits, FHV causes respiratory infections in cats, leading to sneezing, nasal discharge, and congestion. This virus can also cause chronic rhinosinusitis, which may result in long-term inflammation of the nasal passages even after the acute infection has passed. Cats with FHV are often prone to recurrent flare-ups, especially during periods of stress.
Bacterial infections:
Bacterial infections often develop after a viral infection has compromised the cat’s immune system. Common bacterial agents include Bordetella and Mycoplasma, both of which can worsen the symptoms of sneezing, nasal discharge, and difficulty breathing.
Fungal infections:
Cryptococcus is a primary fungal infection found in cats and is typically contracted through inhaling fungal spores. It can cause serious nasal discharge, swelling, and other respiratory issues.
Aspergillus is another fungal agent that can cause significant nasal and respiratory symptoms, especially in outdoor cats or those exposed to soil and decomposing matter where these fungi thrive.
Mycobacterial infections:
Although rare, Mycobacteria can infect a cat’s nasal passages, leading to chronic infections that may be difficult to treat. Symptoms can include prolonged nasal discharge and swelling.
Dental problems:
Tooth Root Abscesses: Dental issues, particularly infected or damaged teeth, can cause tooth root abscesses, leading to nasal infections when bacteria spread into the nasal cavity.
Oronasal fistula:
This connection develops between the mouth and the nasal cavity, usually due to dental disease or trauma. It allows bacteria to move freely between the two areas, resulting in infection.
Diagnosis and treatment
Vets often begin by examining the nasal discharge and performing diagnostic tests such as swabs, blood tests, or imaging like X-rays or CT scans. Cultures and sensitivity tests help determine the appropriate medication for fungal or bacterial infections.
Antiviral medications for viral infections like FHV may be prescribed, although supportive care is often key in managing symptoms.
Antibiotics are used for bacterial infections, and antifungal treatments are essential for fungal cases like Cryptococcus or Aspergillus.
Surgery or dental procedures may be necessary if dental disease or oronasal fistulas are present.
Prevention
Maintaining a clean environment, regular vet check-ups, and ensuring that cats are vaccinated against common pathogens like feline herpes virus can reduce the risk of nasal infections. Proper dental care also plays a significant role in preventing complications that can lead to nasal infections.
If your cat exhibits signs of nasal discomfort, such as persistent sneezing, nasal discharge, or congestion, consult your vet to ensure timely diagnosis and treatment.
Chronic rhinitis
Chronic rhinitis in cats is a long-term inflammatory condition of the nasal passages that can significantly impact a cat’s daily life. Cats suffering from chronic rhinitis often experience persistent symptoms such as sneezing, nasal congestion, and a runny nose. The nasal discharge can vary from clear to cloudy, depending on the severity of the inflammation and any secondary infections.
Cryptococcus
This is a fungal infection that can affect your cat’s nasal passages. Cryptococcus is found in the environment, particularly in bird droppings and soil. If your cat comes into contact with this fungus, they may develop a chronic nasal discharge, swelling on the nose, and even neurological signs if it spreads. Cryptococcus requires specific antifungal treatments, and early diagnosis is key to successful management.
Nasal cancers
Though less common, nasal tumours can occur in cats, especially as they age. These cancers can cause symptoms similar to infections or chronic rhinitis, like nasal discharge, sneezing, or facial swelling.
Diagnosing nasal cancer usually requires imaging (such as X-rays or CT scans) and sometimes a biopsy. Depending on the type and stage, treatment might involve surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy.
“Viral infections are a common cause of feline nasal problems.”
Diagnosing nasal disease
Your vet will likely start by examining your cat and discussing their symptoms. They may recommend tests such as blood work, nasal swabs, X-rays, or even advanced imaging like a CT scan to get a clearer picture of what’s happening. A biopsy or culture may sometimes be needed to identify infections or tumours.
Treatment and management
The treatment will depend on the underlying cause.
For infections, antibiotics, antifungal medications, or antiviral drugs may be prescribed.
Chronic conditions like rhinitis often require ongoing management, including nasal drops, anti-inflammatory medications, or steam therapy to help keep your cat comfortable.
In cases of cancer, more specialised treatments will be necessary.
Helping your cat at home
If your cat has a nasal disease, there are a few things you can do at home to make them more comfortable:
- Keeping their environment calm and stress-free can help boost their immune system.
- Use a humidifier or create steam (e.g., in a bathroom after a hot shower) to help clear their nasal passages.
- Clean nasal discharge gently with a soft, damp cloth.
- Follow your vet’s medication advice and attend any follow-up appointments to monitor your cat’s condition.
Remember, if you notice any changes in your cat’s breathing or nasal symptoms that aren’t improving, it’s always best to check in with your vet.
Are you worried about your cat’s health?
If you are concerned about your cat, please reach out to our friendly team. Call us on 1300 228 377 or fill out the contact form below. In an emergency, please contact your local vet.
For vets – to refer a patient or book a telehealth consultation, please call us on 1300 228 377, book through the portal or fill in the form.
Meet The Author
Dr Rachel Korman
Specialist in Feline Internal Medicine
BVSc MANZCVS (Internal Medicine) FANZCVS (Feline Medicine)
Dr. Korman’s childhood love for cats led her to veterinary medicine, and early on, it was clear that feline care was her calling. After graduating from the University of Queensland in 2000, she worked in small animal and feline-only practices across Australia and the UK.
She received a Senior Clinical Training Scholarship from the Feline Advisory Bureau (now International Cat Care) at the University of Bristol, where she researched feline infectious and haematological diseases, and in 2018, became a Fellow of the Feline Medicine Chapter of the Australian New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists and a registered Feline Medicine specialist.
Frequently Asked Questions
What symptoms suggest nasal disease in cats?
Cats with nasal disease may sneeze frequently or develop nasal discharge. Some also struggle to breathe comfortably through their nose.
What causes nasal disease in cats?
Infections caused by viruses, bacteria or fungi are common causes. Dental disease and other complications can also affect the nasal passages.
What viral infections commonly affect the feline nose?
Feline herpesvirus is one of the most common viral causes. It can trigger respiratory infections and long-term inflammation in the nasal passages.
Can nasal infections become chronic in cats?
Yes. Some infections lead to chronic rhinosinusitis, which causes ongoing inflammation and recurrent symptoms.
When should a cat with nasal symptoms see a vet?
Persistent sneezing, nasal discharge or breathing difficulty should be evaluated by a veterinarian. Early treatment may prevent chronic disease.
Patient Stories
Our commitment to feline health is best seen in the stories of the cats we’ve had the privilege of treating. These journeys highlight the dedication, expertise and compassion that drive us.
Each patient faced unique challenges, and it was our honour to offer high-quality care and help them regain strength and happiness. We value the deep bonds with cats and their owners, knowing the difference we make in their lives.
Kitty, a lymphoma survivor
We first met Kitty after she was referred to CSS for the evaluation of a large intestinal mass
Poppi finds her feet again
Following surgery to remove a hairball obstruction, Poppi was referred to us at CSS as she had not bounced back as expected
Rusty and his ongoing chronic rhinitis journey
Lifelong nasal issues, including persistent discharge and breathing noise, have been a bit of a thorn in Rusty’s side.
Lando’s long game with cryptococcus
Lando was referred to CSS because he had a swelling under his jaw that wouldn’t go away.
Popeye coughs up the culprit
Ares is a handsome young Maine Coon who was referred to CSS after presenting at AES with sudden lameness in his back leg.
Key Takeaways
Nasal disease can cause sneezing, nasal discharge and breathing difficulty in cats.
Infections from viruses, bacteria or fungi are common causes of nasal problems.
Viral infections such as feline herpesvirus can lead to chronic nasal inflammation.
Cat Specialist Services Reviews 
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Tanya Bell
6 months ago
We transported our cat here from another animal hospital, as his condition was too complex for them. Our pet was given the highest quality of care, multiple investigations/procedures being able to be done at the one place a godsend. We were kept up to date frequently throughout his stay. All questions & options explained thoroughly. Being able to have private visits certainly helped us and our cat too. I would highly recommend Cat Specialist Services at Underwood. Amazing staff from reception, vet nurses, vets & specialists. Oh, and yes he is recovering wonderfully at home.
Melinda Cox
A month ago
So very happy we were asked to come here for advice for our NORBIT. He has had 2 x UTI blockages within weeks of each other since turning 6. Surgery seemed to be his only option and he didn’t feel it was very fair on him if we didn’t at least exhaust all other avenues first.
Dr Allison was very thorough in her tests and has let us know she would like to treat the cause of the problem. Great news.
It may lead to removal of crystals in his bladder if his diet doesn’t let him pass them naturally.
At least this surgery won’t be as severe at taking his penis off him – so as his fur parents – we are very happy with this.
We await further tests to see what’s in store for him.
NORBIT will now be a patient of the clinic as we are so far very happy with his treatment thus far.
Lesley Rosekrans
A month ago
Hi has only been a week since losing my beautiful Peaches but can’t thank Dr Cindy, Maree and Jackie enough for the tender care they gave her and they after care they gave me. I sincerely thank them and can’t recommend the Clinic highly enough they are such caring people. Peaches I’m happier times.
Madison McEwan
A month ago
I cannot thank the entire CSS team enough and especially Dr Cindy for the care they provided for our boy with a urinary blockage, and we will be taking both our cats here from now on. The clinic is exceptionally clean and calming compared to all other clinics we’ve been too, and all staff from the reception to the nurses/vets were so supportive during a stressful time. I knew from the first minute that I got to see him after he was transferred that he was in the best place, and that the staff genuinely care about their well-being and positive long term outcomes. We were given regular updates and full transparency, so much information including QR video codes on how to administer medications, along with print outs and emails about how to best help avoid future issues or recurrence. Our boy got to smooch on everyone and was beyond well looked after. Thank you again, you all made an incredibly stressful situation actually manageable and calming.
Astrid El Gamal
6 months ago
Dr Wan-Ju has been treating my baby since her first seizure in November 2025 and she has been fantastic.
Everybody at the clinic is so friendly and caring and I know my baby is in good hands.
Thank you team!
Deeba M
3 months ago
Dr Alison Jukes from CSS Underwood is an AMAZING feline physician. She is kind, professional, thorough and our cat is blessed to have her on his side. She even was able to save us money and invasiveness by being skilled to the level of doing ultrasound on two separate occasions without our cat needing to go under full sedation. Our other cat was recently seen by Dr Jukes as well, and she made sure our cat’s heart was ok. I also want to thank the lovely Jacqueline and Mairead from customer care. They are very kind each time I see them and call up. Sending thanks from our family, including Smokey and Floozy!
Judith Dionysius
A month ago
My whole experience with CSS was positive – from the first email I received giving lots of information regarding the process of radioactive iodine treatment to the expected costs, to checking my cat in for the treatment, boarding for 2 weeks after the treatment and picking her up to come home. They didn’t push for any tests that were not necessary.
Janelle Wieden
5 months ago
We never knew this service existed but we are very grateful we were referred to them. Our vet Cindy was really great, she made us feel at ease during a very stressful time. We got the sense straight away the Leo was in good hands. This service made us feel better knowing that they specialise is cats only. Would highly recommend their services
Georgia Carter
5 months ago
My Lani finished her I-131 treatment today and I am beyond impressed with the way she was looked after. I am by definition a neurotic pet owner and sending my fur child away for a week was seriously daunting.
I was given daily updates about how kitty was eating, toileting and behaving. This really put my mind at ease. Vets and vet nurses were so accomodating and allowed Lani to have her favourite foods from home prepared her favourite way.
Her vet was so thorough when explaining her treatment and condition to me.
The ladies at reception were so friendly and understanding.
I honestly cannot recommend this clinic enough and I am so thankful for the positive experience Lani and I have had.
Lauren Woodward
A year ago
My sweet ginger boy Louis was hospitalised at CSS for a Urinary Obstruction. Dr Cindy and all the reception staff were amazing and empathetic. I would often ring up with questions post procedure and Dr Cindy would make time to talk and explain things to me
Service Locations
Cat Specialists accepts referrals for cats across Brisbane and surrounding regions, working closely with local veterinary clinics to provide specialist diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management.
Contacting Us
Pet Owners
If you would like to talk about treatment for your cat, call us on 1300 228 377 or fill in the form.
In an emergency, please contact your local vet.
Vets and Nurses
To refer a patient or book a telehealth consultation please call us on 1300 228 377, book through the portal or fill in the form. For advice calls, please see the guidelines here.
Monday-Friday: 8 am-6 pmSaturday/Sunday - Closed