A sneezing cat treatment may vary according to the underlying causes triggering this symptom. Allergies, a sinus infection or a cold may cause sneezing in your pet. There are antibiotics, antihistamines or anti inflammatory drugs that can be used, but there are also a few home remedies that can be applied to reduce the frequency of the sneezing episodes or to eliminate the sneezing altogether.
Saline Nose Drops
Using some saline nose drops can relieve the discomfort if the cat suffers from allergies, a cold or a sinus infection. Prepare a solution using 10 tbsp of salt and 1 liter of water. Warm it up, leave it to cool for a bit, and apply the solution with an eye dropper when it is lukewarm.
Chicken Soup
If you suspect your pet is affected by a common cold, chicken soup can work well in alleviating the symptoms. Make sure the soup is not hot, as this may irritate the cat’s throat. The warm liquid should reduce sneezing and speed up the recovery.
If you prepare the soup, don’t use garlic or onions, and if you buy the soup, ensure you read the labels carefully. Onions and garlic are toxic for cats.
Hydration
If the pet is affected by a cold or an infection, he needs to stay hydrated. Change the water bowl regularly. You may also use an air humidifier.
Steam Baths
A steam bath can be effective in reducing sneezing, as long as the sneezing is not caused by allergies. The steam will clear the sinuses and relieve symptoms such as sneezing or coughing. Place the cat in a bathroom filled with steam and keep him in there for 5 minutes. After the steam bath, place the cat in warm towels or under a blanket in a warmer room, to prevent a cold.
Alternatively, you may place your cat above a steamy wash basin for a few minutes, covering the cat and making sure he inhales the steam.
Echinacea
Echinacea is an immune system booster that may be applied to reduce allergies and to prevent colds or sinusitis. Echinacea can be found in liquid form or as tablets.
Fatty Acid Supplements
Just like Echinacea, the fatty acid supplements can help the immune system, allowing the cat to recover from a cold or infection. Also, if the sneezing is caused by allergies, immune system boosters will diminish the sneezing and other respiratory symptoms.
When to Use Home Remedies for Sneezing
These home remedies may only be effective if the pet’s underlying condition is not serious. If the pet has severe allergies, with symptoms such as swelling of face and limbs, this signals a strong allergic reaction that requires an epinephrine shot and medication treatment.
Also, if the cat has an infection and you apply home remedies, but the cat’s condition is not improving, you need to visit the vet. Don’t medicate your pet at home, and don’t administer medications that are created for humans. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is toxic for felines and can be fatal if administered in high doses.