Is my 8-week-old kitten's noisy breathing and snoring normal?

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!

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/

Unfortunately kittens are susceptible to many viruses that infect the respiratory tract and can cause noise, running eyes and noses and general ill health. There is little to do for a virus aside from administering antinflammatories which you would need to have prescribed by a vet. However I would recommend taking the kitten in for an exam as the viruses can make way for bacterial infection and the vet can give antibiotics if needed. In the mean time keep the kitten in stress and draught free environment.

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.

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!

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! It sounds as though he might be congested. An upper respiratory tract infection (URI) due to a viral or bacterial infection is the most common reason for congestion in kittens. Common signs of a URI are: congestion, raspy throat breathing, nasal or eye discharge, sneezing and coughing. Herpes virus is the most common cause and usually runs it's course but it can lead to a secondary bacterial infection. If the nasal discharge is yellow or green, he is lethargic and not eating well that indicates a need to be seen by your Vet. If he is eating and drinking then you can watch him since it has only been 2 days since you adopted him. If his symptoms persist for a week or more then he should be seen. Have a good day!

Penelope is too cute. If this breathing occurs only when she purrs or sleeps, it may be normal for her. If she was sick, I'd expect the breathing to occur like that all the time. Having her checked out by a vet is best, however.