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My kitten is sneezing with clear discharge but active. Should I worry?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Female | spayed | 6 lbs

Just got a kitten from PetSmart and she sneezing and has a little clear discharge from her know she was fully vaccinated. She continues to eat and play and use the litter box.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 1st, 2018

She might have an upper respiratory infection causing the sneezing and discharge. Since she is eating and playing normal, you can monitor her and see if the problem resolves. If she stops eating, becomes lethargic, has a fever, and/or the discharge increases or becomes discolored then she needs to be examined by a vet for treatment.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on June 15th, 2020
No, I wouldn't be overly concerned at this stage if he is eating and drinking and acting fine. Just monitor him and if he gets a crusty nose, has discharge from the nose, stops eating, etc then have your vet check him. This is probably a mild upper respiratory and he will hopefully resolve it on his own.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Jessica Desrosiers
Veterinary Technician
Published on August 31st, 2018
Stress can sometimes trigger chronic URI symptoms in cats, as the virus tends to remain dormant until stress or another illness triggers it. If she doesn't have a fever, the discharge is clear, and she's still eating and drinking, continuing supportive care such as providing plenty of food and water and removing any discharge with a wet washcloth should be fine. If she does have a fever, stops eating or drinking, the discharge changes color, or she seems wheezy or raspy, bringing her back in for additional treatment is best.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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