Why is my cat sneezing, drooling, hacking, and shaking her head?

Related Answers from Veterinarians

• Answered By Jeffrey Milner

  Veterinarian

  Sorry to hear about Princess! Sneezing in a young adult cat is typically due to some sort of upper respiratory infection or environmental allergy. My best guess about the drooling would be to relate it back to the sneezing; each time Princess sneezes she is probably bringing some mucus up into her mouth resulting in drooling. Head shaking in cats typically is also typically related to respiratory infections or in some cases ear infections / ear mites. Based on the hacking cough and sneezing, it appears that your kitty may be in need of some antibiotics or, at the very least, some supportive care. I would check and see if she has a fever, which you can readily due at home with a rectal thermometer. See if her temperature is above 102.5. If there is a true infection, it is unlikely to get better without medication. I would seek veterinary care in order to obtain the appropriate medication. Depending on how Princess looks, they may want to obtain some diagnostics in order to best serve you and her.

  

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• Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

  Veterinarian

  Published on May 1st, 2017

  I'm sorry to hear that Princess has not been feeling well! The most likely cause of her sneezing, drooling and coughing is an upper respiratory infection (generally viral in origin, but secondary bacterial infections can develop), but could also be due to allergies or severe dental disease. Since she has been feeling so poorly with a slight decrease in her appetite, Princess should be examined by her vet. She may need antibiotics if a bacterial infection is suspected. You can also try taking her into a steamy bathroom for 10-15 minutes at a time to see if that helps to improve any nasal congestion. I hope that she is feeling better soon!

  

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