My cat is sneezing a lot — what could it be?

An occasional sneeze is perfectly normal for a cat. Persistent sneezing — especially when accompanied by nasal discharge, eye discharge, or lethargy — suggests something is irritating or infecting the upper respiratory tract.

Common causes of frequent sneezing in cats

- Upper respiratory infection (URI / cat flu) – The most common cause. Feline herpesvirus (FHV-1) and Feline calicivirus (FCV) are responsible for the majority of cat flu cases. Symptoms include sneezing, nasal discharge (clear to yellow-green), eye discharge, drooling, and loss of appetite. Herpesvirus infections can become latent and reactivate during periods of stress.
- Chlamydophila felis – A bacterial infection that primarily causes conjunctivitis and sneezing.
- Nasal polyps or tumours – Benign polyps in the nasal passage or throat can cause chronic sneezing, often on one side. More common in younger cats (polyps) and older cats (tumours).
- Foreign body – A blade of grass or other small object inhaled into the nasal passage can cause sudden violent sneezing and pawing at the nose.
- Dental disease – The roots of the upper teeth sit close to the nasal cavity. An abscess can cause nasal infection and sneezing.
- Household irritants – Cigarette smoke, perfume, cleaning products, and dusty litter can cause sneezing without underlying disease.

Is it contagious to other cats?

Yes — feline URI viruses spread easily between cats via secretions and shared bowls. Keep a sneezing cat away from others until examined by a vet.