How to holistically help a cat with loud breathing, snoring, wheezing?

It sounds like Winchester may have an upper respiratory infection. Upper respiratory infections are common in kittens and can be caused by viruses and bacteria. It's also possible that he could have an inflammatory issue like allergies or asthma. It would be a good idea to have Winchester examined by your veterinarian as he may need antibiotics or other medication to treat. Until you can see your veterinarian you can try to put Winchester in a steamy bathroom to help open his airways. But I'd suggest seeing a veterinarian sooner rather than later as these issues can progress quickly. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

Upper respiratory infections in cats are caused by viruses as well as bacteria, so if Jade has a respiratory infection caused by a virus, antibiotics will not help. In addition, some cats have ongoing problems with these infections, and will have bouts of illness throughout their life. You can take her back into the vet for a health check, as she may benefit from some medications, but I will also give you a few things you can do at home for Jade as well. First, you can try starting her on an L-lysine supplement - this is an amino acid that has been shown to help the immune system fight off respiratory infections more effectively. Enisyl and Viralys are both good brands, and can be purchased over the counter without a prescription - just follow the dosing instructions on the label based on your cat's weight. If she's congested, you can also try using a humidifier or bringing her into the bathroom with the door closed while you take a hot shower - the steam and humidity help to break up congestion and temporarily relieve symptoms associated with respiratory infections.

Was your kitten ever examined for nasopharyngeal polyps? There is a possibility that your kitty has a polyp in the area that connects the nose with the mouth. These polyps can grow big and fill out the cavity and cause signs that resemble upper respiratory infections without the infection. Snoring is another sign. They are most commonly seen in kittens and young cats, but can occur in any cat. Here is some more information: https://www.petcoach.co/article/ear-polyps-in-cats/

This may be normal for her, especially if she isn't exhibiting any other symptoms. It certainly could be some mild congestion, which is common this time of year as the heat vents tend to blow dust around. But as long as there are no other symptoms, like wheezing, coughing, nasal discharge, or inappetence, you may have nothing to worry about. You might try weight loss to increase her overall quality of life!

Upper respiratory infections, allergies, and minor issues with the throat or lungs can sometimes cause congestion or coughing/snoring sounds, however minor cases may resolve on their own with little symptoms. If your cat is still eating and drinking and acting normally, it may just be best to keep an eye on her and watch for any changes. If you do see symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, loss of appetite, fever, difficulty breathing or discharge from the eyes and nose, then scheduling a veterinary appointment for further care is best. If she stays normal, then bringing it up at your next vet checkup if still concerned is best so that your vet can make sure to examine those areas more thoroughly.

It may be unrelated to her surgery, but this sounds like her respiratory function is compromised. This could be due to feline asthma, bacterial pneumonia or something similar. Respiratory distress in cats can be dangerous so I would bring her in to a veterinarian ASAP. They will likely do some chest x-rays and possibly some blood work to look for signs of infection. Good luck!

Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Nomi. It sounds like she could have a respiratory infection. You should have her seen by a vet for this, and I can give you some things you can go at home for her. Please know that what I'm giving you at home cannot replace a vet visit. First, you can try starting her on an L-lysine supplement - this is an amino acid that has been shown to help the immune system fight off respiratory infections more effectively. Enisyl and Viralys are both good brands, and can be purchased over the counter without a prescription - just follow the dosing instructions on the label based on your cat's weight. If she's congested, you can also try using a humidifier or bringing her into the bathroom with the door closed while you take a hot shower - the steam and humidity help to break up congestion and temporarily relieve symptoms associated with respiratory infections. I hope this helps!