Pregnancy can be an exciting and overwhelming time for cats and their owners alike, but it’s important to be aware of any changes that may occur during this time, including sneezing.
So, why is your pregnant cat sneezing so much? Cats are adorable and furry, but they can be a lot of work too.
Cats are animals that require a lot of attention and care. For example, cats need to eat regularly, so it’s necessary that you feed them the right food and provide them with plenty of fresh water.
Cats are also very playful and curious, so they need entertainment to keep them happy. Cats also need to be given a lot of attention and affection, so it’s important for you to get close to them and spend lots of time with them.
This explains why cats are so popular; they’re adorable and fun, but they’re also pretty needy.
This article will discuss why pregnant cats may be sneezing, what signs and symptoms to look out for, diagnosis, treatment options, prevention tips, and when to see a vet for further advice and assistance.
What is Sneezing?
Sneezing is a normal reflexive action that occurs when something irritates or tickles the nasal passage of a cat or another animal species.
It is the body’s way of expelling irritants from the nose, such as dust particles or allergens like pollen or mold spores that may have been inhaled inadvertently by the animal. In most cases, sneezing is not cause for concern.
However, if it occurs frequently or persists over a long period of time, it could indicate an underlying health issue that needs to be addressed by a veterinarian.
Why Is Your Pregnant Cat Sneezing So Much?
There are several potential causes of sneezing in pregnant cats; some are related to the pregnancy itself, while others are due to environmental factors or underlying medical conditions unrelated to pregnancy.
Common causes include allergies , respiratory infections , foreign objects lodged in the nasal passages, tumors, trauma to the nose area, and hormonal changes associated with pregnancy itself, which can cause inflammation of the mucous membranes lining the nasal passages, resulting in sneezing episodes.
In rare cases, pregnant cats may also experience sneezing due to more serious conditions such as feline infectious peritonitis (FIP).
Signs and Symptoms of Sneezing in Pregnant Cats
Sneezing in pregnant cats is common, but it may signal a serious health problem in your cat.
Sneezing is a symptom of feline infectious peritonitis (FIP), a contagious disease that is highly fatal in cats. FIP can be transmitted by mothers to kittens via milk.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for FIP. FIP is spread by direct and indirect contact with an infected cat or kitten.
Symptoms of FIP include sneezing, nasal discharge, decreased appetite, weight loss, and fever. Coughing and difficulty breathing can also signal FIP.
If your cat is showing these symptoms, have a veterinary doctor examine him or her as soon as possible.
Diagnosing the Cause of Sneezing in Pregnant Cats
In order to determine what is causing your pregnant cat’s sneezing episodes, your vet will need to perform a physical examination and take blood samples for testing.
They may also use imaging techniques such as X-rays or CT scans if they suspect there may be an obstruction within your cat’s nasal passages, such as a tumor or foreign object lodged inside.
Your vet may also recommend allergy testing if they suspect your cat could be suffering from an allergic reaction.
Treatment Options for Sneezing in Pregnant Cats
The treatment options available depend on what is causing your cat’s sneeze episodes.
However, common treatments include antihistamines, antibiotics, decongestants, or steroidal medications.
If tumors are found, then surgery may be required depending on their size and location within your cat’s body.
How To Prevent Sneezing In Pregnant Cats
Spaying or neutering your pets is important for a number of reasons. Apart from preventing unwanted litters, it also reduces the risk of tumors and cancer in your pet.
Spaying or neutering your pet will also reduce their chances of developing behavioral issues, such as aggression and roaming.
However, these procedures can be risky for pregnant cats. Spay and neuter surgeries can lead to complications in pregnant cats, such as uterine torsion, eclampsia, and abortion.
Here’s how to keep your cat from sneezing during pregnancy:
Make sure the cat gets plenty of rest. Cats need lots of sleep during their pregnancy. Make sure you give your cat plenty of rest.
Feed her properly
Your cat needs plenty of protein-rich food to stay healthy during pregnancy. Food with high protein levels will help her produce enough milk for the kittens.
Take her to a vet
A vet will be able to assess your cat’s health and determine whether it’s safe to proceed with the surgery.
Give her medication
Your veterinarian may prescribe some medications to prevent your cat from sneezing.
Have the cat spayed before the kittens are born
Pregnant cats should be neutered before giving birth because it reduces the risk of complications during the birthing process.
When To See A Vet For Sneezing In Pregnant Cats?
Pregnant cats sometimes sneeze due to nasal congestion.
This is normal and temporary. However, sneezing in pregnant cats can also be a sign of a serious problem.
If a cat is sneezing due to congestion, that congestion will usually clear up without treatment within a few days. However, sneezing in pregnant cats can be a sign of asthma, heart disease, or lung disease.
Heart and lung diseases can develop during pregnancy because the cat’s body has to work harder to support the growing kitten. Asthma is especially common in cats with allergies, and cats with allergies are more prone to asthma during pregnancy.
If a cat is sneezing excessively and having trouble breathing, it’s best to take it to the veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment.
Also Read: Why Does Your Pregnant Cat Pee Everywhere?
Conclusion
In conclusion, your pregnant cat is sneezing a lot because she is sick.
There are many reasons why your cat might be sneezing. Your cat might be allergic to something in your home, or she might have an upper respiratory infection.
If your cat continues to sneeze, you should take her to the vet.