What is Sneezing?

When your pet inhales a breath, he or she also inhales tiny particles of dust and irritants. The nose of a cat or dog is extremely sensitive to smells and odors and it does not take a lot to make a cat or dog sneeze! Ultimately, when your pet sneezes - the body is trying to get rid of something by sneezing (usually something that is bothering the fine hairs in the nose, which could be dust, irritants due to allergies).

As air moves up the nasal cavity, nose hairs and mucus collect these ‘rogue’ particles. The animal body is triggered to shut the epiglottis (at the back of the throat) contract the chest and let out a huge sneeze! Cats and dogs are also prone to sneezing if they have a respiratory infection, when sensitive membranes become inflamed. This is similar to when humans get a cold or the flu - pet colds are caused by a virus or bacteria.

Sneezing can pass the infection to other dogs and cats with pets from shelters having been exposed to the infection, and older pets being more at risk due to a weakened immune system or changes in the nasal membranes.

There are numerous bacteria that can cause sneezing in your pet: Pasteurella, Bordetella, Streptococci and pseudomonal bacteria. Bordatella and Adeno-2 cause kennel cough, while in cats, the two most common causes of sneezing are the rhinotracheitis virus (Herpes-1), Calicivirus and the organisms Chlamydia psittaci and mycoplasma. Non infectious causes of sneezing include: household detergents, allergies, foreign bodies, tooth abscesses and breed characteristics.

Help for Sneezing

A rectal temperature reading will usually indicate if your dog or cat may have a respiratory tract infection (the normal temperature of a cat or dog is about 102.5F. If the temperature is over 103.5 it might indicate a problem). Conventional preventative treatment for respiratory tract viruses usually means a vaccination, and treatment will usually include antibiotics, vitamin A and good nutrition. Be aware that some antibiotics and vaccination may be unpleasant for your pet and accompanied by side effects.

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Natural Remedies

There are a number of herbal and homeopathic remedies known for their beneficial effects on the respiratory system. For dogs, herbs such as Plantago lanceolata and Echinacea purpurea help to maintain clear, healthy chests, noses and throats. Homeopathic ingredients such as Bryonia and Kalium sulphate are often used for their ability to support respiratory health.

For cats that are usually impatient and easily startled by noise, and their sleep is easily disturbed, Borax is a beneficial remedy. There are also natural versions of vaccines available for cats and dogs – but be sure these are obtained from a reputable source.

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