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Why Some Cats Have Ongoing Nasal Congestion or a Stuffy Nose
There’s a difference between a passing sniffle and one that never really clears. Nasal congestion might sound minor, and for humans it normally is, but in cats it’s not just affecting the sounds they’re making. It’s impacting comfort, appetite and breathing more than you know. Cats rely so heavily on their sense of smell that a ‘minor’ blocked nose can be major enough to reduce their interest in food. Thankfully, some are short-lived upper respiratory infections, but anything ongoing or recurrent usually warrants further investigation.
At Cat Specialist Services, we offer advanced feline healthcare services in an exclusive, cat-only setting.
Our patients are referred from all over Brisbane, the Gold Coast, broader Queensland and upper NSW for a variety of reasons and conditions. Unexplained, persistent nasal congestion is not an uncommon one. Here’s how to tell the difference between a brief episode and a more concerning pattern.
What ongoing nasal congestion can actually mean
A frequent culprit is chronic rhinitis, which is a persistent inflammation of a cat’s nasal passages. It tends to linger rather than fully clear and causes ongoing or recurring symptoms that can vary in severity. Some days seem better than others, but there is usually a level of congestion that never quite goes away.
Many of these cases can be traced back to a previous upper respiratory infection, particularly feline herpesvirus. While the initial infection passes, it can leave behind long-term changes in the nasal lining, including lasting inflammation, which can lead to flare-ups. Symptoms may worsen, then settle again.
What does this look like to cat owners at home? We often hear it described as cats always being a little bit sniffly, having noisy breathing through the nose, or a stuffy nose that improves but then comes back.
Some causes are more complex
Sometimes, nasal discharge and ongoing congestion are not always infection-driven. Other potential causes, particularly when dealing with one-sided congestion, may be:
- Nasal polyps – benign growths within the nasal passages
- Dental disease – where infection can enter the sinus cavities
- Trauma to the nose or face
- Foreign material – for example, a grass seed lodged in the nasal passages
- Tumours – this is less common, though more likely in older cats
When it comes to nasal polyps, they can closely resemble a chronic infection because they often cause sneezing, nasal discharge and noisy breathing. Occasionally, they may also lead to changes in swallowing and ear-related signs like head shaking or imbalance. This is a condition we see more in younger cats, and it’s not uncommon for them to be treated for infection first without much improvement.
Cat owners can also be surprised to learn that dental disease can have sinus involvement, particularly when it affects the upper teeth. This is because the roots of the upper premolars and molars sit extremely close to the sinuses, and infection here can lead to nasal discharge and congestion. This might present as one-sided, or there may be a smell from the mouth rather than generalised congestion.
What to watch out for if you have a sniffly cat
If your cat has ongoing sneezing, noisy breathing through the nose or visible nasal discharge, it’s worth paying closer attention to how they seem overall. Congestion often starts to affect appetite because smell plays such a major role in a feline’s interest in food. You may also see eye discharge or more subtle behavioural changes, like them seeming quieter than usual or less engaged.
The nature and type of discharge can provide some useful clues. Pay attention to whether it’s clear and watery, thicker or more mucus-like, or discoloured yellow or green.
Also, keep in mind whether it’s one-sided or both, and if it’s constant or comes and goes, as these patterns will help your vet distinguish between the various underlying causes.
And then there are signs that can’t wait and should always prompt a veterinary assessment. If your cat has discharge from one nostril, visible swelling around the face or nose, increasing noise when breathing or any signs of struggling to breathe comfortably, there’s likely something more significant going on.
How we investigate ongoing congestion in cats
At Cat Specialist Services, we’re an exclusively feline referral practice, and we see many cats for a range of reasons involving long-term congestion. Getting a diagnosis starts with gathering a detailed history of what’s been happening at home, including how long it’s been present, whether it’s constant or intermittent and if there are any other concerning symptoms, like frequent sneezing, nasal discharge or eye involvement. We also factor in any information owners can provide about dental health, previous respiratory issues or any other changes over time.
We’ll complete a physical exam next to help guide what comes after and whether further testing is needed. Depending on the findings, we may turn to tests like blood work, dental assessment or imaging to take a closer look at the nasal passages and surrounding structures. Some cases may warrant more advanced investigation to properly determine the cause.
Once we know why the sniffle trouble is happening, we can work out a treatment plan to get your cat back to their usual self, where possible.
When it’s not ‘just a sniffle’ after all
Ultimately, a cat with the occasional mild sniffle may only need some supportive care, but ongoing or recurring congestion shouldn’t just be put down to cat flu. Chronic nasal symptoms can have a range of causes, from post-viral inflammation to polyps or dental disease. That’s why it’s best to have your cat assessed if you have any concerns.
If your cat requires further care or specialist input, your vet can arrange a referral to Cat Specialist Services.
Vets can refer patients here.
“Ongoing or recurring nasal congestion in cats usually warrants further investigation rather than being dismissed as a simple sniffle.”
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 causes ongoing nasal congestion in cats beyond simple infections?
Ongoing nasal congestion in cats can be linked to chronic rhinitis, which is persistent inflammation of the nasal passages. It may also develop after a previous upper respiratory infection, such as feline herpesvirus, leaving lasting changes in the nasal lining. In some cases, non-infectious causes like nasal polyps, dental disease or foreign material may be involved.
How can I tell if my cat’s nasal congestion is serious?
It’s important to look at patterns and accompanying signs rather than a single symptom. Ongoing sneezing, noisy breathing, reduced appetite or visible nasal discharge may indicate something more than a temporary issue. Signs such as one-sided discharge, facial swelling or difficulty breathing should always prompt a veterinary assessment.
Why does nasal congestion affect my cat’s appetite?
Cats rely heavily on their sense of smell to engage with food, so nasal congestion can reduce their interest in eating. Even mild blockage can make food less appealing, which may lead to decreased appetite over time. This is why ongoing congestion can have a broader impact on overall feline health.
Can dental problems really cause nasal congestion in cats?
Yes, dental disease can contribute to nasal congestion in cats, particularly when the upper teeth are affected. The roots of certain teeth sit very close to the sinus cavities, allowing infection to spread into these areas. This may result in nasal discharge, sometimes on one side, and may also be accompanied by a noticeable smell from the mouth.
What is involved in diagnosing ongoing nasal congestion in cats?
Diagnosis begins with a detailed history of your cat’s symptoms, including duration, frequency and any related changes. A physical exam is then performed to guide next steps, which may include blood tests, dental assessment or imaging of the nasal passages. In more complex cases, further investigation may be needed to determine the underlying cause accurately.
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
Ongoing nasal congestion in cats can affect comfort, appetite and breathing, making it more significant than it may first appear.
Persistent or recurring symptoms are often linked to conditions like chronic rhinitis or previous upper respiratory infections.
Some cases may involve more complex causes such as nasal polyps, dental disease, trauma or foreign material in the nasal passages.
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