How to Treat a Cat for Sneezing and Wheezing

Cats suffer from allergies, just as people do.

If your cat is sneezing and wheezing, she's probably pretty miserable and you're wondering what you can do to help. More than likely, your cat is sneezing and wheezing because of an allergy. Such symptoms are often caused by dust or pollen. Wheezing occurs when the airways become inflamed and constricted, causing breathing to become difficult. Wheezing also may be the result of asthma.

Instructions

1. Stop smoking indoors. Second-hand smoke can affect pets, too. Some pets are allergic to cigarette smoke.

2. Put moisture in the air with a humidifier. Winter heating and air-conditioning in the summer can create dry air in the home, which causes the nasal passages to dry out and affect your cat's breathing.

3. Choose a low-dust litter, preferably one that clumps. Litter that creates dust when scratched can affect your cat's breathing.

4. Clean and vacuum often to keep dust to a minimum, especially if your cat seems to be allergic to house dust.

5. Give your cat a vitamin supplement to promote a healthy and strong immune system.

6. Eliminate stress in your cat's environment. Sources of stress can include moving to a new home or introducing a new pet to the household. Stress can cause asthma or allergies to flare up.

Tips & Warnings

• If your cat is having difficulty breathing, see a veterinarian immediately. A cold can turn into pneumonia. Cats are susceptible to upper-respiratory infections, which can be serious and require medical attention.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish