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.