I don’t know what’s going on with Mittens, but I’m really starting to worry. She’s been having these weird sneezing fits for a couple of weeks now, and it seems like her nose is always runny. At first, I thought it was just a cold or maybe allergies because it started when spring did, but now there’s this strange crustiness around her nose that won’t seem to clear up. She’s a pretty lazy cat, but she’s been even more sluggish lately and doesn’t seem to want to eat as much. I finally have a vet appointment set for Friday, but my nerves are all over the place trying to figure out what this could be. Has anyone ever dealt with something like this? Any advice would seriously help right now.
Thanks for reaching out with your concern. Nasal squamous cell carcinoma in cats is indeed something that can happen, though it's not the most common type of cancer in our feline friends. This type of cancer arises from the thin, flat cells in the nasal passages and can cause symptoms like sneezing, nasal discharge (possibly with blood), facial swelling, or even a noticeable mass.
The exact cause of nasal squamous cell carcinoma isn't always clear, but factors like exposure to the sun, secondhand smoke, and certain chemicals could potentially increase the risk.
At home, keeping your cat comfortable is key. Ensure they have a clean, dust-free environment and watch for signs of distress like difficulty breathing or a decrease in appetite. You can gently wipe away any nasal discharge with a warm, damp cloth.
It's crucial to keep an eye on the progression of symptoms. If you notice increased bleeding from the nose, facial deformities, or if your cat seems to be in pain or has trouble breathing, these could be signs that the condition is serious and needs prompt veterinary attention.
I recommend scheduling a video consult through Dial A Vet to discuss your cat's symptoms in detail and determine the best course of action.
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