Nasal polyps in cats are growths or masses of swollen, inflammatory tissue that are often found in the nose and throat of cats. They are most commonly found in young cats, but older cats can be affected as well. The cause of nasal polyps is not completely known. If your cat has nasal polyps, these are some things you should know about them.
What is and what are the causes of nasal polyps in cats?
Polyps are benign, fleshy masses that can develop in the nose, at the top of the soft palate, middle, and/or external ear canals. A polyp may grow up to 2 cm in diameter and is most commonly found in cats, but is not common in dogs.
Nasopharyngeal polyps are one of the most common causes of nasopharyngeal disease in cats. Polyps can be single or multiple and are typically found in young cats, less than 3 years of age, but they can affect any age.
These polyps can grow through the eardrum into the ear canal, causing clinical signs such as labored breathing and sneezing.
We do not know the exact cause of nasal polyps in cats. Nasal polyps often develop as a result of chronic inflammation of the upper respiratory tract. Studies have been performed to determine if there is a link between upper respiratory infectious agents, such as feline calicivirus and feline herpesvirus, and the development of nasal polyps in cats. However, no definitive link has been found.
What are the symptoms of nasal polyps in cats?
The most common symptoms of nasal polyps in cats are:
- Sneezing
- Open-mouth breathing
- Nasal and ocular discharge
- Loud breathing and other abnormal breathing sounds
Nasal polyps can cause a partial or complete obstruction of the nasal passages. If left untreated, nasal polyps can lead to serious health problems such as chronic respiratory infections and pneumonia. Any young cat with chronic, recurrent sinus infections or changes to breathing should be evaluated for the possibility of nasal polyps.
How are nasal polyps in cats diagnosed?
Nasal polyps are typically diagnosed during a physical examination. Your veterinarian will typically recommend heavy sedation to evaluate behind the soft palate, as most nasal polyps will be visible in this location. Your veterinarian may also take radiographs (X-rays) of the nose and sinuses to look for nasal polyps.
How are nasal polyps in cats treated?
Surgical removal of the polyp is the recommended treatment option. Under anesthesia, your veterinarian uses a technique called traction or avulsion to remove the polyp. It is important that the stalk of the polyp is removed as well to limit recurrence. In addition, prednisone is often prescribed following the procedure for 2 weeks to reduce the risk of recurrence.
Horner’s syndrome is a relatively common complication after surgical removal of a nasal polyp in cats. It occurs when the sympathetic nerves that run through the middle ear are affected during the procedure, especially if the polyp extends into the ear canal. Signs may include a droopy upper eyelid, a smaller pupil, sunken eye appearance, or a protruding third eyelid, usually on the same side as the surgery. While it may look concerning, Horner’s syndrome is typically temporary and often resolves on its own over several weeks.
What is the prognosis for nasal polyps in cats?
The prognosis for nasal polyps in cats is good following surgical removal. However, there is a small risk of recurrence. Prednisone may be prescribed after the procedure to reduce the risk of recurrence.
How long can a cat live with a nasal polyp?
Provided that your cat is not showing any symptoms of distress or chronic respiratory issues, they can live a normal, healthy life otherwise.
What is a nasopharyngeal polyp in cats?
A nasopharyngeal polyp is a type of nasal polyp that forms in the nasopharynx, which is the upper part of the throat behind the nose.
What are some home remedies for nasal polyps in cats?
There are no home remedies that have been proven to be effective in the treatment of nasal polyps in cats. If your cat is showing symptoms of nasal polyps, it is important to take them to the veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment.
Can nasal polyps in cats be prevented?
There is no known way to prevent nasal polyps in cats. If your cat is at risk for developing nasal polyps, regular examinations by your veterinarian are important to help diagnose and treat nasal polyps as early as possible.
Nasal polyps are small, grape-like growths that form on the lining of the nose or sinuses. They can cause a number of symptoms, including sneezing, discharge from the nose, and difficulty breathing. If left untreated, nasal polyps can lead to chronic respiratory disease. Surgical removal of nasal polyps is the recommended treatment option. Prednisone may be prescribed following the procedure to reduce the risk of recurrence. The prognosis for nasal polyps in cats is good following surgical removal. If you have any further questions about nasal polyps in cats, be sure to contact your veterinarian.