Cat with a sinus problem?

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