Our Vets are Available 🟢
Dial A Vet Logo
🐾 Pet Health
Blogs
Dog HealthCat HealthVeterinary ServicesPet Health
ask a vet
Ask A Vet Q&A - Free!Vet Tips - By Our Vets!
resources
Free Symptom CheckerDial A Vet NZFind a Local Vet Clinic
about DIAL A VET
Terms & Conditions
Privacy PolicyEditorial GuidelinesNewsletter
View all Blogs
Over 6,000 Articles
View All Q&A
5,000+ Answers
💵 Pricing📖 How it Works📧 Contact
Chat to a Vet

Question:

Elderly cat with nasal issues, not responding to medication.

I'm feeling pretty desperate and really need some advice. My sweet old cat, Mr. Whiskers, who's been with me for over 15 years, is having a tough time right now. He's been struggling with these awful nasal issues for a while, like he’s constantly congested, and it's breaking my heart to see him like this. We've been to the vet countless times, and they've prescribed all sorts of medications, but nothing seems to be working. He’s barely eating because he can hardly smell his food, and I can see he’s losing weight and energy. I'm really scared and just want to make him comfortable, but I feel out of options. Has anyone been through something similar with their senior cat? Is there anything else I can try? Any tips or advice would mean the world to me. Thanks a lot.

Answer:

I'm sorry to hear about your elderly cat's nasal issues—it's always tough when our furry friends aren't feeling their best. It's good that you've already tried medication, even though it hasn't worked yet. Sometimes, persistent nasal issues in older cats can be due to respiratory infections that are resistant to initial treatments or could stem from other causes such as allergies, nasal polyps, or, in some cases, conditions like dental disease or tumors.



Since the medication hasn't been effective, it's important to keep your cat comfortable in the meantime. You might try running a humidifier in areas where your cat spends the most time; this can help ease nasal congestion. You can also gently wipe any nasal discharge with a soft, damp cloth to help them breathe easier.



Be on the lookout for signs that might indicate a more serious problem, like noticeable difficulty breathing, a significant drop in appetite or weight loss, or any changes in behavior or energy levels. If you notice any of these, it’s crucial to seek further veterinary attention quickly.



To get a clearer picture of what's causing these issues, and to discuss other possible treatments, consider booking a video consult with one of our vets at Dial A Vet. We'll help you explore the next best steps to ensure your cat is comfortable and healthy.

Answered by

Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet

June 22, 2025

  Book A Vet Consultation
The "Ask a Vet" forum on Dial A Vet offers general information and helpful tips on pet health, but it's not a substitute for professional veterinary care. The advice here doesn't create a veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and our vets can't diagnose or treat your pet remotely. For emergencies or specific medical concerns, always contact your local veterinarian immediately. Your pet's health is unique, and decisions should only be made after consulting with a qualified professional. By using this forum, you acknowledge these limitations and agree to seek in-person veterinary advice for all your pet's health needs. View our content guidelines.
🧠 Related Pet Owner Questions
Dog may have eaten bone on walk
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Is Tidy Cat unscented and Fresh step unscented good cat litter?
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Cat over grooming for 1.5 years: allergies or compulsive behavior? Allergy test positive pics on a different post
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Afraid to have my cat's dental cleaning done this week due to risk of anesthesia death. What are some questions I should ask before committing?
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Money Magazine
Australia's Leading
Online Vet
TrustPilot:
Excellent
Real Vets

Thousands of Pet Owners across the Globe rely on Dial A Vet for peace of mind.

Real questions, vet reviewed answers and quality care.

Trusted by 40,000+ users
4.7/5
dog in grass
Ina
Pet Owner

It was so easy, I needed some eye drops for my dog and thinking about going to the vet on a weekend made me nervous about the cost involved. Dial A Vet was a much simpler, cheaper option with faster results. Within 10 minutes of the call, I had the medicine I needed for my dog without an expensive consultation.

25 May 2025
Joanne
Pet Owner

A great fast efficient service with a qualified vet who was lovely and helpful. Thank you Samantha. I was able to sort my dog at 6pm on a Sunday night for $49 - amazing. Highly recommend.

12 May 2025
Lisa
Pet Owner

What an amazing service, at my wits end as I knew my beautiful dog had an ear infection, could not get into the vet for 4 days. Never knew there was vets online until I googled. Within 15 minutes on a Sunday I was taking to beautiful Samantha who diagnosed and treated our Jasper. Only $49. She trusted that we knew our boy and gave us lots of advice. I will definitely be using dial a vet every time and sharing with all my friends and family. Absolutely fantastic kind caring service. 11/10

7 April 2025
The logo for Dial A Vet, the online vet company.

With Dial A Vet, expert veterinary advice is just a tap away. Get fast vet consultations, trusted care, and personalized pet support - anytime, anywhere, all year round.

Dial A Vets uses software that is HIPAA compliant and SOC - 2 Certified.

support@dialavet.com.au

dial a vet owner with cat
dial a vet pet owner with dog in a orange top
colourful pet owner with their dog
40k+
Pet Owners
Fluffy stuff
Terms & ConditionsPrivacy policy
Company
How It WorksPricingBlogFree Online VetOnline VetPet Symptom CheckerFind a Local Vet ClinicAsk A Vet: Q&AGlossary
NEW ZEALAND
Speak to A Vet NZ
Our Social Links