A cat with a wet nose is healthy, and a cat with a dry nose needs to see a veterinarian, right? Well…not necessarily.
In this article, I, Ivana Crnec, DVM, will explain the meaning of dry nose in cats and when it is time to schedule a vet visit.
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Content:
Should a Cat's Nose Be Wet
Yes, a cat’s nose should be wet. Cats instinctively lick their noses and secrete liquids from the surface of the nose.
Studies suggest that a wet nose boosts the sense of smell by helping to capture scent particles and determine where the scent comes from.
However, the normal wetness of the cat’s nose changes throughout the day and depending on environmental factors.
“It's normal for a cat that has just woken up to have a dry nose,” says Jenna Stregowski, RVT, in an article for Spruce Pets.
A dry nose is expected if the cat sunbathes or sleeps near an air vent or heat source.
Use the Petcube Pet Camera to monitor your cat’s activities before checking the wetness of its nose.
“Dry noses don't always mean anything,” says a Reddit user, but it is vital to be cautious.
Why Is My Cat's Nose Dry
Your cat’s nose is dry because it slept, stayed in warm or dry conditions, or is suffering from an underlying condition.
Worrisome conditions that can result in a dry nose in cats include:
- Dehydration: Dehydration occurs when the cat does not drink enough water or loses too much fluids through vomiting and diarrhea.
- Sun Damage: The UV lights are just as harmful to cats as they are to humans. Sunburn of the nose can make it warm and dry.
- Trauma: Mechanical and chemical injuries (toxins) can damage the surface of the cat’s nose, making it temporarily dry, red, and crusty.
- Skin Problems: Allergic dermatitis and pemphigus foliaceus are skin problems causing changes in the nose’s appearance.
- Cancer: Studies suggest that squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the nasal planum is common in cats. Other cancer types affecting the nose are hemangioma and sarcoma.
Dealing with the conditions listed above can be expensive, making pet insurance an excellent investment. Consider the Petcube Emergency Fund, if comparing policies.
It covers $3,000 in emergency vet bills and unlimited access to online vets. The fund is available at a 27% discount through this link.
FAQs
What to do if my cat has a dry nose and is not eating?
If your cat has a dry nose and is not eating, schedule a vet visit. Seeing the veterinarian is even more important if the cat shows additional signs, such as lethargy, fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and coughing.
What does it mean if my cat’s nose is cold and wet?
If your cat’s nose is cold and wet, it means it works appropriately. Usually, cats have wet noses, which helps their sense of smell. The moisture makes the nose feel cold.
Conclusion
Contrary to popular belief, a dry nose in a cat is not a reason to panic and rush to the nearest emergency veterinary hospital. However, you should schedule a vet visit if the issue persists or is accompanied by worrisome signs and symptoms.
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