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My cat is sneezing after spay surgery. Is it a cold or a virus?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | unspayed | 1 year old

I just had my cat spay like 10 days ago - since that time she has developed sneezing. She didn't sneeze at all last spring and summer so I was wondering if could be allergic to something that had to do with the spay? Or something else? Maybe she just has a cold?

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. B. DVM, DACVIM (Oncology)

Veterinarian

Published on March 29th, 2019

More then likely she is having a flare up of an upper respiratory virus with the stress of surgery. Most cats are exposed to these viruses, such as cat herpes, and stress can elicit a flare up. Sneezing, runny eyes/nose, congestion, etc. are common. If there is any discoloration to any discharge, cough, or she is not eating well a recheck with your vet is indicated. For most cats however the signs will run their course in 5 to 10 days. I hope this helps and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

12Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Lauren Jones VMD
Veterinarian
Published on March 29th, 2017
I'm glad to hear that two of the cats recovered from their surgery without any issues, but I am concerned that Gizmo is so lethargic and sneezing. There is a chance that she may have acquired an upper respiratory infection either during or after her surgery. If she has a chronic herpesvirus infection (which is quite common), some stressors, such as surgery, can trigger virus shedding which can lead to infections. Gizmo should be rechecked by her vet to make sure there are no post-operative surgical complications and to assess her respiratory condition. If an upper respiratory infection is diagnosed, she will likely need antibiotics to treat a primary or secondary bacterial infection.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Published on October 24th, 2018
It's possible that she contracted an upper respiratory infection when she was at the vet's, if the sneezing do not resolve within 2-3 days i would recommend taking her to your vet to get it checked and treated.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on July 30th, 2019
It sounds like she may have contracted an upper respiratory infection. If she is still acting normally and eating I would not be overly worried at this point. If she starts showing any symptoms of being sick (other than the sneezing) then she should see the vet.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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