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Senior cat has breathing issues, sneezing, congestion. OTC options?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Female | spayed | 18 years and 2 months old | 6 lbs

My 18 year old cat has been having periodic breathing issues sneezing, and congestion, at this point it seems obvious she has seasonal allergies. However, being 18 years old and I don’t have the money to put her through the extensive allergy investigations and treatments. What are my options? Are there over-the-counter options I can give her?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Published on April 13th, 2019

Hi, and thanks for your question.
This sign could be compatible with an upper respiratory tract inflammation/infection or possibly to a chronic rhinitis (inflammatory, allergic, infective). A clinical examination at your local veterinarian is essential to confirm these clinical suspicions and treat appropriately. Antibiotics or antiallergic (steroids medications) may be needed. It is not necessary to perform expensive tests as treatment can be attempted to resolve the problem.
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Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Mariya Gugel, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 6th, 2018

    Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Frankie is adorable! The signs you describe can be caused by an upper respiratory infection or polyps. Nasopharyngeal (basically meaning the deeper part of the nose) polyps are very common in cats and a benign, however can cause trouble breathing. I recommend having Frankie seen by a vet if the symptoms continue for another day or so. Your vet can perform bloodwork and x-rays, and remove the polyps if Frankie has them. I hope this helps and that all is well!

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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