A Guide to Understanding Cat Reverse Sneezing

What is Cat Reverse Sneezing?

Cat reverse sneezing is a medical condition characterized by a sudden and repetitive fit of rapid inhalations through the nose that can sound like cats are choking or gulping for air. It may last for a few seconds to a few minutes, during which the affected cat may extend its neck and sometimes paw at their nose. Cat reverse sneezing is normal, though it can be quite alarming for pet owners who may not be familiar with the condition.

Cat reverse sneezing is more common in some breeds of cats, such as Himalayans, Persians and Siamese cats. It occurs when dust, strong aromas or irritants in the air trigger their sensitive nasal passages causing air flow obstruction. The episodes usually stop after they finish inhaling deeply and expel the irritant from their nose. In rare cases, cat reverse sneezing can cause distress in cats and may require medical attention.

Generally, no treatment is needed for cat reverse sneezing episodes. To calm your pet, try speaking softly to them and petting them gently. If your pet’s episodes increase in duration or frequency, it is recommended that you take them to the vet.

Symptoms & Causes of Reverse Sneezing in Cats

Reverse sneezing, also known as inspiratory paroxysmal respiration, is a phenomenon in cats that causes a loud snorting, honking, and/or gasping sound. It typically occurs when the cat inhales sharply through the nose and the soft palate is drawn into the throat. The spasms are usually short-lived and end with the cat sneezing out the trapped air.

Reverse sneezing commonly occurs in cats of all ages and breeds (but tends to be more common among brachycephalic breeds such as Persians and Himalayans). While most cases of reverse sneezing are not serious, some can be indicative of allergies or an underlying respiratory condition.

Common triggers for reverse sneezing include irritation of the nasal area, excitement, playing too hard, inhalation of dust, smoke, or perfume, or pulling on the collar too tightly. Severe cases may require medication, so it is important to talk to your veterinarian if your cat experiences frequent reverse sneezing episodes.

At-home treatments may include removing irritants from the home, distraction, cutting back on play time, steamy room treatments, or massaging the throat area. Keeping your cat stress free can also help reduce the occurrence of reverse sneezing.

Managing & Preventing Cat Reverse Sneezing

Cat reverse sneezing is a condition that can affect cats of all ages and breeds. It is characterized by bouts of spasm-like loud inhalations in quick succession, usually lasting anywhere from a few seconds to a couple of minutes. It is caused by an irritation or inflammation of the throat and airways, leading to a narrowing in the passageway and restricted airflow. The most common causes are allergens like dust, pollen, cat litter, cigarettes and strong odors.

In the majority of cases, the condition will resolve itself without any medical intervention. If it is recurrent, your veterinarian may suggest medications or injections to manage the inflammation. To prevent any future episodes it is important to reduce potential triggers. These include keeping the house free from excess dust, avoiding cigarette or other smoke exposure, and cleaning the litter boxes more frequently to minimize strong odors. Keeping your cat indoors and away from busy streets also helps to avoid respiratory irritants. In addition, having your cat vaccinated and taking them for regular vet checkups can help to avoid any potential illness that can cause a reverse sneeze.

Treatments for Cat Reverse Sneezing

Cat reverse sneezing is a condition where cats involuntarily spasm or gasp while inhaling, causing a raspy sound. It can look and sound quite alarming, but it isn’t particularly harmful and generally nothing to panic about. The medical name for this condition is “paroxysmal respiration”.

The exact cause of cat reverse sneezing is still uncertain, although most experts believe that it is triggered by an irritation in the throat. This irritation might be caused by an infection, allergies, inhaling smoke, dust, or a foreign object lodged in their nasal passages.

Treating reverse sneezing usually involves determining the root cause, whether the irritant is environmental, infectious, or caused by an underlying condition. If environmental, removing the irritant should make the cat less susceptible. For example, if allergies are the suspected culprit, then allergen-proofing the home may help simplify the process. If infection or another underlying condition is causing the reverse sneezing, then treating the underlying issue is necessary. In such cases, consulting with a vet is necessary. Oftentimes, no additional treatment is necessary as the condition typically resolves on its own without precipitating any long-term issues.