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Cats/Cat with a sinus problem?

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Expert: - 8/16/2011


Question
I have a ~9 year old indoor/outdoor cat. She's always been extremely active, friendly, playful, a good hunter, etc. She is an adventurer though and has gotten herself into some sticky situations.

Lately she's been lethargic, wants to mostly be left alone but isn't nasty about it - just stays away from people or in her normal "hiding" spots. She's been sneezing and wheezing a bit, almost like she has to cough up a hairball but not only has she NEVER done that, it really seems more like she's sick.

In addition to her coughing and sneezing, her face is swollen. It's not hard or tender to the touch, but it's definitely swollen, mostly right underneath her eyes but more on one side than the other.

Is there anything that can be done for this? I hate to see her suffer, especially in summer when she normally is perfectly content to run around and hunt outside all day long. Her temperament is very different. Again, she's not being mean and she doesn't seem like she's in pain anywhere, it just seems like she has a cold or a sinus infection. Do cats get these? Should they be treated, and if so is a vet necessary or is there a home treatment?

We have a vet and obviously if it's necessary we'd take her there, but if it will go away on its own or we can treat it at home, that would be preferred.

Answer
Hi Tess,

I would definitely take her to your vet. The swelling is what concerns me. She might have an abscess there. And that could cause the other stuff going on with her. The fact that she is acting lethargic is of concern. Cats usually act like this when they are really feeling poorly. Take her to your vet. Get the swelling checked out. God luck and take care.

Ciao, Karen

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Karen Craft

Expertise

I can give advice on cat behavior. I can help about newborn kitten care. I can help with senior cat care. I can answer questions about cat proofing a home or making it cat friendly. I can answer diet questions. I can answer home treatments questions for cats. At present I have 13 cats in home and two ferals outside. And there's always room for one more!

Experience

I have over 40 year's experience with cats. Father was a veterinarian and I assisted him in his work. I have 15 cats at present. Most are shelter or feral rescues. I have one purebred cat. I have done cat rescues and foster care. Some thoughts to carry with you. A Cat's 10 Commandments My life is likely to last 15-20 years. Any separation from you is likely to be painful. Give me time to understand what you want of me. Place your trust in me. It is crucial for my well-being. Don't be angry with me for long and don't lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your friends, your entertainments. But I have only you. Talk to me. Even if I don't understand your words, I do understand your voice when speaking to me. Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget it. Before you swat me, before you strike me, remember that I have teeth that could draw blood. And claws to strike back. And yet I choose not to attack you. If I don't act right then have me checked to see what is wrong. Please take care of me when I grow old. You too will grow old. On the difficult journey, on the ultimate difficult journey, go with me please. Never say you can't bear to watch. Don't make me face this alone. Everything is easier for me if you are there. Because I love you so. Take a moment today to thank God for your pets. Enjoy and take good care of them. Life would be a much duller, less joyful thing without God's critters. Pass this on.

Education/Credentials
I have an A.A.S.

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