sneezing/coughing kittens

Question
Hello,
My longhaired calico had six beautiful kittens 5 days ago, all healthy (note- I was told she was spayed when I got her! This is evidently not the case...) It is her first litter. One of the kittens has been sneezing and coughing, and a few others are sneezing a bit. There does not seem to be any discharge from their noses or eyes, and they are all eating properly and gaining weight. the sneezing and coughing does not seem to disturb their sleeping or nursing. I know you are not a vet, but in your experience, is this cause for alarm, or is it relatively common? (I'm probably especially worried because I'm used to keeping rats, and if rats are sneezing, it's bad.)

Answer
Sandy,

Congratulations on your new 'grandkitties'!

It sounds like allergies. It could be dust, or any number of things the kittens may be allergic to. Try changing the blanket or whatever they are laying on, and maybe even change the room (if the mother doesn't mind).

I would also give the vet a call. It is possible that it is the start of an Upper Respiratory Infection or other inherited feline ailment.


Carol