Reptile & Amphibian Forums

My cat has been having problems with upper respiratory....mainly sinus. Clogged nose, sneezing.

Vert took chest Xray and all clear there. No fever. Vet prescribed antibiotics which seem to clear up the cloudiness of the nasal discharge, but there still a lot of sneezing and runny nose. Vet recommended a small dose of Children's Benedryl but it makes the cat foam like crazy at the mouth. When I asked vet if it could be an allergic reaction, she said that it a normal side affect. It doesn't look very normal to me and would like to try something else. Any suggestions?

I would not recommend giving the cat any products meant for humans unless directed to do so by your vet. I have heard of cats getting Benedryl in small doses. However, I believe there are other prescription decongestants that might do the job. See if your vet might reconsider prescribing something like that.
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Smile, it will make them wonder what you are up to!

It was the vet who recommended the Benadryl. When I called to tell her that I didn't like the fact that she was foaming (and occassionally vomiting), the vet told me it was normal. I still don't like that, so I'm going to see what else the vet recommends. The main issue is that the cat HATES taking pills, so I think that's why the liquid benadryl was suggested in the first place. I guess I just have to decide which is less traumatic.....giving her drops that make her foam and gag, or forcing her to take a pill which will also make her gag!

>>It was the vet who recommended the Benadryl. When I called to tell her that I didn't like the fact that she was foaming (and occassionally vomiting), the vet told me it was normal. I still don't like that, so I'm going to see what else the vet recommends. The main issue is that the cat HATES taking pills, so I think that's why the liquid benadryl was suggested in the first place. I guess I just have to decide which is less traumatic.....giving her drops that make her foam and gag, or forcing her to take a pill which will also make her gag!

Be sure to talk to your vet about a compounding pharmacy. There may be one in the area who will do up meds that are cat-friendly flavored!
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Smile, it will make them wonder what you are up to!