Sneezing problems with persian or any flat face breed

I know with persian having a flat nose they are prone to sneezing and runny nose, but just wondering what is considered normal.. My 6 months old persian kitty has always have sneezing problem since the first day I got him but sometimes he sneezes up to 40-50 times a day.. My vet said it is normal but either way gave me antibiotics to try, but he doesnt recommend any further testing, but to me it doesnt seem normal to be sneezing 50 times a day...

Any persian or flat nose breed owners out there, can you let me know if your cat has any sneezing and runny nose issues? Thank you!

I don't have a Persian or flat-nosed kitty, but I do have a sneezer and your kitty is sneezing too much!  I'd take him to a different vet for a second opinion or ask your current vet to do some further testing at your request.  I'd definitely have the PCR URD panel run (that's for upper respiratory diseases) to rule out herpes or any of the other things it tests.  You might also look at allergies and litter dust.

Agreed, you are within your right to ask for testing to be done. I doubt they will say no to someone willing to pay for more testing. They most likely have the opposite problem as a rule.

I have heard that flat-nosed breeds tend to have more issues in that department, but I agree that that sounds like a bit much.

I am kind of suspecting herpes... But seems like there is no treatment and that is the reason my vet said no need testing.. He said its just expensive tests and no treatment... But my curiosity makes me want to know what is wrong with my boy...

stephanietx said:

I don't have a Persian or flat-nosed kitty, but I do have a sneezer and your kitty is sneezing too much!  I'd take him to a different vet for a second opinion or ask your current vet to do some further testing at your request.  I'd definitely have the PCR URD panel run (that's for upper respiratory diseases) to rule out herpes or any of the other things it tests.  You might also look at allergies and litter dust.

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KiKi82 said:

I am kind of suspecting herpes... But seems like there is no treatment and that is the reason my vet said no need testing.. He said its just expensive tests and no treatment... But my curiosity makes me want to know what is wrong with my boy...

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I think a lot of tests are more about knowing and peace of mind, rather than treating. I went through a bunch of tests on my Sara for a totally different issue just to rule out a bunch of bad things. And we did.

Can't put a price on peace of mind. And at the end of the day, that is really your call as to whether or not to have the kitty tested. I think some vets are so used to people NOT wanting tests done though, so I can see both POVs.

I am kind of suspecting herpes... But seems like there is no treatment and that is the reason my vet said no need testing.. He said its just expensive tests and no treatment... But my curiosity makes me want to know what is wrong with my boy..

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If it is herpes, you need to know so you can formulate a plan to keep him at his healthiest and to prevent flare ups.  Whatever is causing this, you need to know so you can formulate a plan.  Also, with the PCR URD test, it tests for other things as well.  I would encourage you to seek a second opinion and someone who will be an advocate for your kitty's health. 

For the PCR URD test, does any of you know around how much it costs?

I have a houseful of Persians and not one sneezes that many times in a day.  I would be concerned too. That said I have a question, when he sneezes is the discharge greenish or yellowish? If anything except clear, it would indicate infection. If it is herpes, it would be good  to know since with the large eyes, Persians can develop eye ulcers. It could also be caused by something you are cleaning with, a scent (like fabric softener), or something along those lines. On a side note, as a Persian breeder I sort of resent a vet who just assumes that because a cat has a flat face it will have sinus issues. Simply not always true!

He always sneezes since the first day I got him, on good days he sneezes about 10-20 times... Bad day i cant even keep counts... Normally his nose discharge is clear and eye tears clear or slight yellow as well but on bad days he gets a lot of boogers and light green nose discharge. His tears would turn orange brownish. The vet told me brownish tears are normal for persian thats why they get staining all the time...i am trying this new antibiotics now so will see if it helps, if not I will have to push him for testing or find another vet... He told me he has seen people push for herpes testing and its just a bunch of test that gets expensive and does nothing for the cat, he said as long as my boy is playful and full of energy then I have nothing to worry about... But seeing him sneeze so much and all these dry boogers on my wall makes me feel like i should do soething....

posiepurrs said:

I have a houseful of Persians and not one sneezes that many times in a day.  I would be concerned too. That said I have a question, when he sneezes is the discharge greenish or yellowish? If anything except clear, it would indicate infection. If it is herpes, it would be good  to know since with the large eyes, Persians can develop eye ulcers. It could also be caused by something you are cleaning with, a scent (like fabric softener), or something along those lines. On a side note, as a Persian breeder I sort of resent a vet who just assumes that because a cat has a flat face it will have sinus issues. Simply not always true!

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If I remember correctly, the PCR URD test is around $70, but that may not be accurate.  You could always call the vet or another vet clinic and ask.