Cat & Dog - Nasal Discharges and Sneezing

Nasal discharges and sneezing are two clinical signs that are associated with disorders affecting the nasal cavity and/or nasal sinuses.  The two signs do not always occur together.  Occasional sneezing is a normal reaction whereas repeated bouts of vigorous sneezing may indicate the presence of a foreign body, or an infection caused by viruses, fungi or bacteria.  Nasal discharges may similarly be due to infections or foreign bodies but polyps, tumours or allergic reactions may also be responsible.

In addition, conditions arising in the mouth such as tumours or tooth root abscesses may be responsible, as can conditions located deeper within the airways.  Diagnosis can sometimes be extremely complex.

How is diagnosis made?

As with the diagnosis of most conditions a full history and physical examination often supplies vital clues.  History should include information such as the duration of sneezing and details of any nasal discharge.

For example, sudden sneezing in an otherwise healthy dog may be due to the inhalation of a foreign body such as a grass awn into the nasal passage.  A cat with a long standing, thick nasal discharge and a swelling over the affected nostril may have an underlying chronic infection or a tumour.

Diagnosis in such cases has to follow a careful step-by-step approach.  Initially a series of basic screening tests is carried out.

What do these tests involve?

A blood sample will be taken.  This will be used for a number of tests which can indicate the presence of infection, anaemia or whether blood coagulation (clotting) is normal, etc.  These are the haematological tests.  A range of biochemical tests can give an accurate picture of the general health of the patient.  This range of tests is called a serum biochemistry profile.  Together with a urine analysis this provides important information regarding the functioning of the liver and kidneys.  Such information could be invaluable if the animal has to subsequently undergo tests involving general anaesthesia.  In addition, microscopic examination of the nasal discharge is usually routinely carried out.  Radiographs (x-rays) of the head, chest and nasal cavities may be necessary.  These usually require general anaesthesia.  In the case of a nasal infection special tests may be needed to determine the cause, which may be viruses, fungi or bacteria.

If the pet is otherwise healthy but has suddenly started sneezing, rhinoscopy, (under anaesthesia) is often very valuable.  This involves examination of the nasal passages with a special telescope which will often visualise the foreign body and aid its removal.

What if these tests do not give a positive result?

If the condition proves particularly difficult to diagnose, and hence effective treatment, referral to a specialist centre may be advised.  We will discuss this fully with you should the need arise.

Please contact us if you wish to discuss any of these tests further.