Understanding Cat Wheezing Through Nose: Causes And Solutions

Wheezing in cats can be distressing for both owners and their pets. While it may not be life-threatening, it could indicate an underlying health issue. Cats typically make little to no sound when breathing, so if you notice your cat is wheezing through its nose, it's important to take them to the vet to rule out any serious medical conditions. Wheezing is a high-pitched airway sound usually produced while the cat is exhaling, and it indicates a narrowing of the airways. This can be caused by congestion due to respiratory infections, which are common in cats, especially kittens. Other causes include asthma, allergies, foreign objects in the respiratory system, or even stress. If your cat is wheezing, take note of any accompanying symptoms and consult your veterinarian.

Asthma

Feline asthma is characterised by irritated or inflamed airways, which cause difficulty breathing. Cats with asthma may cough or gag, and produce frothy mucus when coughing. They may also breathe rapidly, or with an open mouth, and may extend their necks to help them breathe. Asthmatic cats may also display overall weakness and lethargy, and their sides may visibly heave in and out as they struggle to breathe.

If you suspect that your cat is having an asthma attack, it is important to stay calm and give them any medication that has been prescribed. Make sure they are in a quiet, cool, well-ventilated area. If the attack is severe, contact your vet immediately and, if you need to take your cat to the vet surgery, ensure that your car is also well-ventilated.

To prevent asthma attacks, it is a good idea to keep a diary of any attacks your cat suffers, to help identify any seasonal patterns or environmental factors that could be triggering symptoms. You can also reduce the chances of an attack by eliminating potential allergens and irritants from your cat's environment, such as smoking, using perfumes or air fresheners, and aerosol products. Keeping your cat at a healthy weight and providing a good diet can also help, as obesity can make asthma worse.

Respiratory infections

Cats with respiratory infections may exhibit symptoms such as sneezing, wheezing, runny nose, and gummy eyes. These infections can quickly become serious, especially in kittens, and in adult cats, they can lead to secondary infections or damage to delicate sinuses. If left untreated, respiratory infections can cause permanent damage to the nasal passages that no longer respond to medication.

If your cat is showing signs of respiratory distress, such as coughing, wheezing, or rapid breathing, it is important to consult a veterinarian right away. They will likely perform a physical examination, collect samples, and may recommend diagnostic imaging such as X-rays or ultrasounds to identify the cause of the infection.

Treatment for respiratory infections in cats depends on the underlying cause. Antibiotics, antivirals, and anti-inflammatories may be prescribed for cats with upper respiratory infections, and these cats can often be treated at home. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove physical obstructions, such as masses, polyps, or foreign objects blocking the airways.

To prevent respiratory infections in cats, it is recommended to keep up with vaccinations, maintain good dental hygiene, provide mental and physical enrichment, and support ethical breeding practices to avoid purchasing cats with severely flat faces, which are more prone to respiratory issues.

Allergies

If you suspect your cat is suffering from allergies, it is important to consult a veterinarian to determine the cause. Allergy testing can help identify the specific allergens affecting your cat. In the meantime, managing your cat's environment by removing potential allergens and using air purifiers can help reduce wheezing episodes.

If your cat is diagnosed with allergies, the treatment will depend on the specific allergens identified. In some cases, removing the allergen from your cat's environment may be sufficient. For example, if your cat is allergic to pollen, limiting their time outdoors during high-pollen seasons may help reduce their allergy symptoms.

In other cases, medication may be necessary to manage your cat's allergies. Antihistamines or corticosteroids may be prescribed by your veterinarian to help reduce inflammation and manage your cat's symptoms.

Additionally, there are some home remedies that can help relieve your cat's allergy symptoms. For example, using a humidifier or taking your cat into the bathroom while you shower can help moisten the nasal passages and make it easier for your cat to breathe. Warming your cat's food can also make it more aromatic and appealing if they are having difficulty smelling their food due to nasal congestion.

It is important to note that allergies can range from mild to severe, and in some cases, they can be life-threatening. If your cat is displaying any additional symptoms, such as coughing, panting, or a blue tint to their gums, seek immediate veterinary care.

Foreign objects in the respiratory system

Cats are usually quiet breathers, so if your cat is wheezing through its nose, it likely indicates an abnormality in its airways or respiratory tract. Wheezing is a huffing, whistling, or rattling sound, and is distinct from a coughing or choking sound.

One potential cause of wheezing is a foreign object in the respiratory system. A respiratory foreign body is when a cat inhales an object that becomes lodged in its respiratory tract, particularly the nose, throat, trachea, or bronchi. These objects are small enough to enter the respiratory tract but too large to pass beyond that point. Common foreign bodies include blades of grass, needles, fish hooks, bones, and grass awns (foxtails).

If your cat has a foreign object in its respiratory system, you may notice the following symptoms:

• Nose-pawing
• Nosebleeds
• Odd or exaggerated movement of the tongue
• Pawing at the face and mouth
• Difficulty swallowing or breathing

If you suspect your cat has a foreign object in its respiratory system, take it to the vet immediately. Early detection and removal are key to recovery. Your vet will likely perform a number of examinations to determine the exact location of the foreign object, including:

• A complete blood count (CBC), biochemical profile, and urinalysis
• An x-ray of the throat, chest, and neck
• Skull/nasal radiographs
• A CT scan or MRI
• Rhinoscopy, tracheoscopy, or bronchoscopy (using a scope to evaluate the nasal cavity, trachea, and bronchi)
• Rhinotomy (cutting into the nasal cavity)

Once the foreign object is located, your vet will work to remove it. If the object is in the throat or nasal cavity, they may be able to remove it manually after administering a local anesthetic. Otherwise, they may need to perform surgery to remove the object, especially if it is lodged deep within the respiratory system. Antibiotics may also be necessary to control secondary infections.

To prevent your cat from inhaling foreign objects, be cautious about the objects in their environment, especially toys, sticks, and other items they may chew on or play with.

Nasal congestion

Causes of Nasal Congestion in Cats:

• Upper respiratory infections: Viral infections, such as feline herpesvirus or feline calicivirus, are the most common cause. Bacterial and fungal infections can also contribute.
• Allergies: Allergic rhinitis can occur seasonally due to pollen or year-round due to indoor allergens like dust and mould.
• Cancer: Neoplasia, or abnormal tissue growth in the nasal passages, can restrict airflow and cause congestion.
• Inflammatory polyps: Non-cancerous growths inside the nasal passages can obstruct airflow and lead to congestion.
• Dental issues: Dental infections and diseases can extend to the nasal passages and cause inflammation.
• Anatomical deformities: Conditions like a cleft palate can affect the structure and function of the nasal passages.

Symptoms of Nasal Congestion in Cats:

In addition to noisy breathing, cats with nasal congestion may exhibit the following symptoms:

• Mouth breathing
• Sneezing
• Pawing at the face
• Snoring
• Open-mouth breathing
• Labored inhalation
• Tears and conjunctivitis (inflammation of the membrane surrounding the eyes)
• Nasal discharge, which may become mucus-like due to secondary bacterial infections
• Aspiration reflex, or a short rapid inhalation to clear the nose

Diagnosis and Treatment:

Veterinarians will typically diagnose nasal congestion through a physical examination, evaluation of medical history, and in some cases, procedures such as rhinoscopy (a scope inserted into the nose) or nasal wash to collect cell samples. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and can include:

• Antibiotics for secondary bacterial infections
• Intravenous fluids and nutritional support for cats who struggle to eat or drink
• Nasal flush to dislodge blockages and debris
• Corticosteroids for idiopathic rhinitis (unknown cause) to reduce inflammation
• Antifungal medications for fungal infections
• Surgery for cancerous growths or anatomical issues in the nasal passages

Home Care:

To help relieve your cat's symptoms at home, you can:

• Use a humidifier or take your cat into the bathroom while you shower to keep the nasal passages moist and open.
• Clean your cat's face with a warm washcloth to remove mucus.
• Offer warm, strongly-scented food to stimulate their appetite.

Frequently asked questions