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My cat has a watery eye, sneezing, and a nose bump. What should I do?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Himalayan | Male | neutered | 7 years and 9 months old | 18 lbs

My cats has had a watery leaky eye, sneezing and has a bump on his nose

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

Veterinary Technician

Published on February 6th, 2022

Poor Bean! If this has been ongoing for a few days, or the bump is bothersome or rapidly changing in size, it's time to see your vet. Runny eyes and sneezing can be a number of things, ranging from allergies, to upper respiratory infections, to irritation of the eye. If there is also a bump present, a blockage of the tear ducts or nose, or even an allergic swelling or minor infection could be the cause. It is best to have Bean seen by your vet to both determine what may be going on, and to help treat any symptoms.

In the meantime, keeping his eyes clean and clear with a warm washcloth, keeping the bump clean and dry, and making sure he is still eating and drinking can help keep him comfortable.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Debi Matlack
Veterinary Technician
Published on November 7th, 2020
Your cat probably has a mild upper respiratory infection. Keep an eye on her and make sure she continues to eat, drink, and behave normally. You can keep the eye clean by gently wiping it with a moistened cotton ball, but she may keep it clean on her own by grooming. If she loses her appetite, has trouble breathing, becomes lethargic, get her in to see your vet right away as she may have something more serious going on if this happens.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. B. DVM, DACVIM (Oncology)
Veterinarian
Published on July 16th, 2018
Based on the symptoms you report it sounds like your kitty may have an upper respiratory infection. These are very common, especially in kittens whose immune systems may not be fully developed. It can be a combination of viral (herpes, etc) and secondary bacterial organisms. If this is what is going on, your other cat could be affected as well, although more than likely she has been exposed to these organisms earlier in life too. Keeping them separated can help if not. You will have to make sure to wash your hands in between handling the kitties and they should not share bowls during this time. Although some animals with secondary bacterial infections may require antibiotics, as most infections are viral the symptoms often run their course with time. As your kitty has recently seen your vet it would not be wrong to just place a call to describe the symptoms to see if they would like you to start some medication before your recheck. If your kitten is eating and drinking normally then this is a great sign. I've attached a link below that hopefully will be helpful. Thank you for using pet coach!

https://www.petcoach.co/article/5-things-you-should-know-about-feline-respiratory-infections/
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Ana M, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on November 20th, 2018
Thank you for submitting your question regarding your cat. Based on your description, she is likely suffering from an upper respiratory infection. She will need to see her veterinarian as she will likely need antibiotics. In the meantime, you can turn the shower to hot and close the bathroom. Allow the steam to build up and then place her in the bathroom. Breathing the warm humid air can ease congestion. I hope this information helps!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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