Are you worried about your feline’s blocked nose and cat cold symptoms? Don’t fret, there are a few tips and tricks to naturally help relieve their symptoms.
Cats can have blocked noses for numerous reasons— potential allergens, an upper respiratory infection, or even dehydration.
Whether you’re looking for long-term relief or just some short-term symptom support this post is here to show you how!
In this article, we’ll explain 4 different remedies that owners can use as well as break down the possible causes of cats having a blocked nose and lastly discuss how long it might take before results appear.
By following these solutions, you should notice some gradual progression in treating the issue with your furry friend over time, so let’s jump right in!
Understanding what causes blocked and stuffy noses in cats
Cat owners have likely experienced empathy when their cat has a stuffy nose. While it may seem like a minor inconvenience, a persistent runny or congested nose can make it difficult for your cat to breathe, eat, and sleep.
Several factors can contribute to nasal congestion in cats, otherwise known as cat colds, which can show similar symptoms to human colds. Some of the common symptoms are:
- Allergies
- cat’s food is not conducive
- a feline upper respiratory infection
- bacterial infections
- polyps
- foreign objects
- Feline calicivirus is a contagious viral infection that affects cats and can cause respiratory symptoms, mouth ulcers, and other more serious infections.
- Feline herpesvirus is a common viral infection that affects cats and can cause respiratory symptoms, eye discharge, and other symptoms that can lead to more serious health issues if left untreated.
- Cat chronic rhinitis is a condition characterized by persistent inflammation of the nasal cavity and sinuses, causing symptoms like nasal discharge, sneezing, difficulty breathing, and difficulty smelling food.
This condition can be caused by various factors like infections, allergies, or underlying health conditions and requires veterinary attention for proper diagnosis and treatment.
By understanding what causes blocked and stuffy noses in cats, you can take steps to prevent these issues and keep your furry companion healthy and happy.
So, let’s dive in and explore the various reasons your kitty may be experiencing nasal congestion.
Natural remedies to help clear a blocked nose in cats
If your furry feline is suffering from a blocked nose, you’ll want to help them find some relief. Luckily, some natural remedies can do just that!
1. Steam the air can help your cat’s blocked nose
If you have noticed that your furry feline friend has a blocked or stuffy nose, steam therapy can help. Just like how we humans rely on this age-old remedy when dealing with congestion, your cat can benefit from it as well!
One option is a humidifier or steam treatment. You can create a steam room in your bathroom and let your cat take in the steam for a few minutes a day.
Running a hot shower and letting your cat take in the steamy air for 10-15 minutes can help loosen up any mucus in their nose and make it easier for them to breathe.
Gently wipe any crusty areas on the nose after the steam room exposure.
2. Use straight saline solution in a directed spray bottle, like this:
Little Remedies Sterile Saline Nasal Mist, Safe for Newborns, 3 oz
Kitten School shows you how to properly administer straight sterile saline mist to your cat’s stuffy nose in their 2 minute video:
3. Vitamin C supplementation to help with a cat’s stuffy or blocked nose
Vitamin C supplementation is a natural solution that can help boost your cat’s immune system and alleviate its nasal symptoms.
While it’s important to consult with your veterinarian before adding any supplements to your cat’s diet, vitamin C could be just the answer you’ve been looking for to help your furry companion breathe a little easier.
To ensure your cat will still eat its food with vitamin C, you can mix in a small amount of pureed fruits and vegetables that are high in vitamin C with their regular food. Here’s what you can do:
Puree a small amount of fruit or vegetable high in vitamin C, such as oranges, strawberries, or red bell peppers.
Mix in a small amount of the pureed fruit or vegetables with your cat’s regular food, starting with a very small amount at first, and gradually increasing the amount over time.
You can also try adding some water to the food to make it more palatable if your cat is a picky eater.
For very picky eaters
If your cat is very picky and will not eat the food with added Vitamin C rich items, you could try adding a small amount of powdered Vitamin C to their food.
Consult with your veterinarian to determine the right amount of vitamin C supplement for your cat’s needs.
Purchase a vitamin C supplement in the form of a pill or powder.
Depending on the supplement form, you can either crush the pill and mix it in with a small amount of wet food, or mix the powder form with water and administer it with a syringe.
Administer the supplement once or twice a day.
4. Increase your cat’s water intake to help with a cat’s stuffy or blocked nose
One effective way to help your furry friend breathe easier is to encourage an increase in their water intake. Dehydration can make a stuffy nose even worse, so keeping your cat properly hydrated is key. Water helps flush unwanted toxins from the body as it detoxes, for example, a bacterial infection.
Encourage them to drink more water by adding a few drops of tuna juice or chicken broth to their bowl, or even using a pet fountain. With a little extra hydration, you can help clear out your cat’s nasal passages and have them feeling like themselves again in no time.
5. Avoid exposure to cigarette smoke and other irritants to help with a cat’s stuffy or blocked nose
If applicable, one of the best ways to alleviate their discomfort is by avoiding exposing them to cigarette smoke and other irritants that can irritate their sensitive nasal passages.
These irritants can cause inflammation and worsen congestion, making it harder for your feline friend to enjoy their usual activities like eating and napping.
By taking precautions to keep these irritants at bay, you can help your cat breathe easier and enjoy a happier, healthier life.
How long can we expect natural remedies for cats with blocked noses to work?
While there are certainly over-the-counter medications and prescribed treatments available, many pet owners prefer to use natural remedies to alleviate their cat’s symptoms. But just how long can you expect to see results from these remedies? Well, the answer isn’t so straightforward.
It ultimately depends on the severity of your cat’s congestion, as well as the effectiveness of the specific natural remedy you’ve chosen. However, with a little patience and persistence, your cat can find relief from their nasal discomfort without the use of harsh chemicals or medications. Keep your cat comfortable by providing a good place to rest and lots of love and cuddles.
How to know when it’s time to consult the veterinarian about a cat’s blocked nose
While some minor blockages can be treated at home, it’s best to consult a veterinarian if the problem persists or shows any signs of worsening.
Your vet can examine your cat and determine the root cause of the blocked nose, which could range from allergies to respiratory infections. With their expert opinion, you can take the necessary steps to help your furry friend breathe easy again.
We hope your cat feels better soon!
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