TL;DR: Reverse sneezing is a common nasal reflex that is usually not an emergency unless your cat shows signs of respiratory distress, such as blue gums or gasping for air. If the episodes are frequent, record a video and schedule a vet visit within 24 to 48 hours.
What exactly is reverse sneezing and what does it look like in cats?
Reverse sneezing, technically known as paroxysmal respiration, occurs when a cat rapidly and forcefully inhales air through their nose instead of exhaling. During an episode, a cat typically stands still, extends their neck, and makes a series of snorting or honking sounds. While it looks and sounds distressing, it is a reflexive response to irritation in the nasopharynx, often triggered by dust, allergens, or minor inflammation.
When is my cat's reverse sneezing considered a medical emergency?
- The urgency level for constant reverse sneezing is categorized as Medium.
- While isolated episodes are rarely a cause for alarm, you should schedule a veterinary appointment within 24 to 48 hours if episodes become constant or increase in frequency.
- Treat the situation as a high-priority emergency if the sneezing is accompanied by a blue tint to the gums, open-mouth breathing, or extreme lethargy.
How does recording a video of my cat help the veterinarian with triage?
- Capturing a video is one of the most helpful tools you can provide since cats rarely perform symptoms on command at the vet's office.
- A clear video allows your veterinarian to distinguish between reverse sneezing, true coughing, or feline asthma, which often look similar.
- Visual evidence helps the vet determine if the issue is a simple nasal irritant or a more serious lower airway condition, leading to a faster and more accurate diagnosis.
Clinical Context (Merck Veterinary Manual)
Aspiration reflex, also known as "reverse sneeze," is characterized by a short, paroxysmal episode of inspiratory effort to clear the nasopharynx of obstructing material. Sneezing, an attempt to clear the upper airways of discharge or exudate, is most frequent in acute rhinitis. In cats, chronic rhinosinusitis is a frequent sequela of acute viral infections of the nasal and sinus mucosa that result in hyperplastic glandular and epithelial changes. Underlying causes of chronic rhinitis include idiopathic chronic inflammatory disease (lymphoplasmacytic rhinitis), trauma, parasites (Cuterebra), foreign bodies, neoplasia, or mycotic infection.
Chapter: Respiratory
Source: The Merck Veterinary Manual, 11th Edition (Page 1489)