Allergic rhinitis or sinusitis can occur seasonally (if due to pollen production) or year-round (if due to indoor allergens, such as house dusts and molds). In cats, chronic nasal and sinus inflammation frequently occurs following severe acute viral infections of the nasal and sinus mucous membranes.
Recovery and Management of Sinus Infections in Cats
The aforementioned drugs frequently have an immediate effect on cats with a good prognosis, with most treatments taking two weeks to complete. It may take months for some infections (like fungi) to get better with treatment.
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Diagnosis of Chronic Upper Respiratory Tract Disease in Cats
A variety of diagnostic tests, clinical signs, and medical history are used to diagnose sinusitis and rhinitis in cats. The process is as follows:
Your cat will first undergo a comprehensive physical examination by the veterinarian. Clinical indicators of upper respiratory illnesses, such as nasal discharge, facial swelling, and signs of dental disease, will be the things they search for. Affected cats may display a variety of these symptoms.
The veterinarian will also inquire about the medical history of your cat, including the frequency and severity of symptoms, their duration, whether they are intermittent or persistent, whether your cat goes outside, and any prior treatments that may have been administered. This is particularly important in the investigation of chronic symptoms.
Following the initial assessment and history taking, the following diagnostic tests may be carried out:
- Nasal Swabs and Culture: It is possible to obtain nasal swabs for both cytological analysis and culture. This can assist in identifying the infection-causing bacteria, viruses, or fungi.
- Blood tests: These are performed to assess the general health of your cat and find any underlying diseases that may be compromising their immune system.
- Radiographs (X-rays) and Radiation Therapy: Head X-rays can be performed to assess sinus health and look for indications of persistent inflammation, polyps, tumors, or foreign bodies. Imaging is essential because radiation therapy may be planned when nasal cancer is suspected.
- Nasal biopsies and rhinoscopies involve inserting a tiny camera into the nasal cavity to view the inside of the nose. This can identify foreign bodies, polyps, tumors, or other abnormalities. If a mass or abnormal tissue is found during a rhinoscopy, a nasal biopsy may be taken for additional examination under a microscope.
- Dental Examination: A comprehensive dental examination, possibly involving dental X-rays, may be conducted because dental disorders can occasionally result in sinusitis.
These diagnostic techniques seek to determine the underlying cause of sinusitis or rhinitis, direct the proper course of treatment, and rule out other illnesses that may present with comparable symptoms. Depending on the particular cat and the veterinarian’s clinical judgment, the diagnostic strategy may change.
FAQ
Will a cat sinus infection go away on its own?
How do you clear a cat’s sinuses?
What can I give my cat for sinus congestion?