What are the common causes of rhinitis in dogs and cats?

Rhinitis in dogs and cats can be caused by infection (bacterial, viral, or fungal), foreign body irritation, allergies, or tumours. A vet will identify the cause through examination and testing before forming a treatment plan.

Can a runny nose or sneezing spread to other pets?

Whether it is contagious depends on the cause. Some bacterial or viral conditions can spread to other animals in the household. If symptoms appear, separate the affected pet and consult your vet to assess the risk of transmission.

What tests will the vet perform at the clinic?

Common tests include a physical examination, blood and urine tests, nasal discharge culture or PCR, and head and neck radiographs. Endoscopy or biopsy may be arranged if needed.

How long does it take for rhinitis to improve?

Recovery time varies widely. Acute infections may improve within days to weeks of treatment, but chronic or structural problems may require longer treatment or ongoing monitoring. Follow your vet's advice on scheduling recheck appointments.

How much do the tests and treatment usually cost?

Costs vary by clinic and region — ask your vet for an estimate before proceeding.

Disease Guide

Dog & Cat Rhinitis and Sinusitis Guide: Nasal Discharge, Diagnosis & Home Care [2025]

Nasal and sinus inflammation with varied causes requiring targeted treatment

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2026/01/06

Pethealthmap Editorial Team

Sources: WSAVA, AVMA, National Taiwan University Veterinary Teaching Hospital

When to See a Vet

Seek Immediate Emergency Care

•Heavy nosebleed lasting more than several minutes that does not stop
•Rapid breathing, open-mouth breathing, or inability to calm down
•Lethargy, persistent drowsiness, or loss of consciousness

Schedule a Clinic Visit Soon (within 24–72 hours)

•Unilateral persistent nasal discharge or purulent secretions
•Frequent or unusual sneezing that has not improved within a few days
•Obvious avoidance or pain response when the nose is touched

01What Symptoms Indicate a Problem?

Rhinitis or sinusitis in dogs and cats typically presents with nasal discharge, sneezing, or facial discomfort; some cases also affect appetite and energy levels.

Flinching or showing pain when the nose or face is touched
Persistent or recurrent nasal discharge, often one-sided or purulent
Frequent sneezing or noticeably more sneezing than usual
Blood-tinged or bloody nasal discharge
Red, swollen eyes or tearing, often accompanying nasal symptoms
If symptoms persist beyond 48 hours, arrange a clinic visit for evaluation

Seek emergency care immediately if you notice the following symptoms:

⚠️ Heavy nosebleed lasting more than a few minutes without stopping
⚠️ Rapid breathing or open-mouth breathing that does not settle
⚠️ Marked lethargy, prolonged unresponsiveness, or loss of consciousness

02How to Assess Abnormalities at Home: Observation Tips and When to Seek Emergency Care

Observing and recording details at home before your visit helps the vet quickly understand the condition and prioritise examinations.

Note when symptoms first appeared and any subsequent changes
Use your phone to record sneezing, breathing sounds, or nasal discharge
Monitor for changes in appetite, water intake, and activity level
Record the colour and amount of any nasal blood or discharge (e.g. purulent)
Measure and record any weight changes; bring notes or photos to the appointment
Call ahead to ask whether a specialist nasal examination can be arranged

03How Will the Vet Diagnose the Problem? Common Examination Steps

The vet will combine a clinical examination with targeted tests to identify the cause and assess the extent of nasal and sinus involvement.

Blood biochemistry and complete blood count to assess overall health

Urinalysis to rule out systemic disease

Head and neck radiographs to evaluate changes in the nasal cavity and sinuses

Nasal discharge culture and PCR testing to identify potential pathogens

Nasal biopsy or referral for endoscopy if indicated

04Treatment and Care After Diagnosis: Medications, Diet Adjustments, and Home Care Guide

Treatment varies by underlying cause; regular follow-up visits are needed to monitor improvement and medication side effects, with long-term monitoring arranged as needed.

Antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, or other medications may be used depending on the cause
Surgery or oncological treatment may be discussed for cases involving tumours or structural abnormalities
Regular recheck appointments are needed after treatment to evaluate symptom and imaging improvement
Medications are adjusted based on test results, with monitoring for potential side effects
Improving the home environment or diet can help reduce repeated irritation and flare-ups
Discuss a long-term monitoring plan and recurrence risk with the specialist team

05What to Prepare Before the Vet Visit: Key Information to Help the Vet Identify the Cause Quickly

Bring a symptom diary noting when episodes occurred and how they changed

Prepare a list of changes in appetite, toileting habits, and energy level

List all current medications or supplements your pet is receiving

Take photos or video of symptoms and any nasal discharge for reference

Bring any previous examination reports or imaging to the appointment

Call ahead to book a specialist or arrange a suitable appointment time

This content is for reference only and cannot replace a professional veterinary diagnosis. If your pet shows signs of illness, please seek veterinary care promptly.