01 Cat Flu (Feline Viral Respiratory Disease) Common

Cat flu is caused by viruses such as feline herpesvirus and feline calicivirus and is one of the most common reasons for sneezing in cats. It's especially common in kittens, unvaccinated cats, and cats living in multi-cat households or rescue environments.

Alongside sneezing, owners often notice watery eyes, nasal discharge, mild lethargy, or reduced appetite. Regular vaccination is the main way to reduce the risk and severity of cat flu.

02 Allergies and Airborne Irritants

Dust, pollen, household cleaning sprays, scented candles, and cigarette smoke can all irritate a cat's nasal passages and trigger sneezing. This type of sneezing tends to come in short bursts and usually settles once the irritant is removed.

03 Foreign Object in the Nose Sudden onset

Grass seeds and other small debris can become lodged in a cat's nose, particularly in cats that spend time outdoors. This usually causes sudden, intense sneezing from one nostril, sometimes with a bit of blood.

04 Dental Disease

The roots of a cat's upper teeth sit close to the nasal sinuses. A tooth root infection or advanced dental disease can sometimes cause sneezing or one-sided nasal discharge alongside the more obvious signs of dental pain, such as bad breath or reduced interest in food.

05 Nasal Polyps or Growths Older cats

In older cats, persistent sneezing from one nostril, ongoing discharge, or noisy breathing can be linked to a polyp or growth inside the nose. This is less common than cat flu but is more likely the longer the sneezing continues without an obvious cause.