Nasal Disease in Cats – An Overview - Cat Specialist Services

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.

A cat sleeping while its owner's hand rests on its head

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.

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.

Common causes of nasal disease in cats

Infections

Common causes of nasal infections in cats

Viral infections:

Bacterial infections:

Fungal infections:

Mycobacterial infections:

Dental problems:

Oronasal fistula:

Diagnosis and treatment

Prevention

Chronic rhinitis

Cryptococcus

Nasal cancers

Diagnosing nasal disease

Treatment and management

Helping your cat at home

Are you worried about your cat’s health?

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Nasal Disease in Cats – An Overview

Common causes of nasal disease in cats

Infections

Common causes of nasal infections in cats

Viral infections:

Bacterial infections:

Fungal infections:

Mycobacterial infections:

Dental problems:

Oronasal fistula:

Diagnosis and treatment

Prevention

Chronic rhinitis

Cryptococcus

Nasal cancers

Diagnosing nasal disease

Treatment and management

Helping your cat at home

Are you worried about your cat’s health?

Patient Stories

Tango Triumphs Over FIP

Toffee Survives Tick Paralysis

JJ & the Lily – a close call

Han’s Hip Fracture Surgery

Coco and Kidney Troubles

Contacting Us