Chronic nasal discharge and sneezing in cats

Sneezing and nasal discharge are a relatively common presentation in cats, often accompanied by involvement of the sinuses and the middle ear. Common associated clinical signs are noisy breathing and inappetence/weight loss. The best outcome for the patient occurs when a specific, treatable cause is identified; however, in a significant number of cases the nasal discharge is the chronic sequel to a respiratory virus infection. In such cases squamous metaplasia of the nasal mucosa means that complete resolution is unlikely, making good long-term management the goal. This article discusses the various causes of sneezing and chronic nasal discharge in the cat, and suggests diagnostic routes and therapeutic options.