고양이 비강 폴립 고양이 자주 묻는 질문 Q&A — 보호자가 꼭 알아야 할 핵심

Feline Nasal Polyps: Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A) — Key Information for Pet Owners

RespiratoryQ&AMeongsiljang Veterinary Advisory Board

Feline nasal polyps are a condition that can cause a variety of symptoms, including difficulty breathing, nasal congestion, and nosebleeds. Here’s a summary of the key information pet owners should know.

What are feline nasal polyps?

A cat experiencing nasal congestion and difficulty breathing due to nasal polyps

Feline nasal polyps are non-neoplastic inflammatory masses that originate in the eustachian tube or middle ear and grow into the nasopharynx. As they gradually enlarge, they can cause respiratory distress and nasal obstruction. They are most commonly reported in young cats. Although factors such as middle ear inflammation may be associated with lesion formation, the exact mechanism remains unclear. Polyps can develop unilaterally or bilaterally, and when they grow large, they obstruct airflow through the nose. - Nasal polyps: Non-neoplastic inflammatory lesions originating from the mucosa of the eustachian tube or middle ear and growing into the nasopharynx, which can directly impair respiratory function. - Progressive symptoms: Early signs include mild nasal congestion and discharge, which can gradually worsen into significant respiratory distress. - Need for diagnosis: Accurate diagnosis requires nasopharyngeal examination (via endoscopy), CT imaging, or biopsy. Early detection facilitates more effective management.

What are the main causes of nasal polyps?

The exact cause of nasal polyps remains unknown. However, inflammation in the middle ear or the auditory tube (Eustachian tube) is thought to be associated with the formation of these lesions. In particular, it has been suggested that the inflammatory response accompanying middle ear inflammation in young cats may play a partial role in polyp development. While nasal polyps have been reported in Domestic Shorthair, Abyssinian, Persian, Himalayan, Siamese, and Maine Coon cats, the lack of comparative studies with control groups makes it difficult to definitively conclude that specific breeds or genetic predispositions are the cause. - Middle ear inflammation: Inflammation in the middle ear or auditory tube may be linked to polyp formation. - Unknown cause: The reason why polyps develop is still not fully understood, and clear triggering factors are often not identified. - Breed reports: Although polyps have been reported in various breeds, no breed or genetic predisposition has been proven, so family history alone cannot be used to make a definitive conclusion.

Microscopic image of a cat's nasal polyp tissue

What are the main symptoms of nasal polyps?

The primary signs of nasal polyps in cats include persistent nasal congestion and discharge caused by blockage of one or both nasal passages. As the polyp grows, it narrows the upper airway during inhalation, which can lead to stertorous (snoring-like) breathing sounds and difficulty breathing, along with sneezing. If the polyp extends toward the back of the throat, it may cause difficulty swallowing or dry heaving. Additionally, if the lesion spreads to the middle or outer ear, you may notice behaviors such as ear scratching or head shaking, as well as decreased appetite and weight loss. - Nasal congestion: The polyp occupies the nasal passage, obstructing airflow and making inhalation difficult. - Nasal discharge and sneezing: Persistent runny nose and sneezing are common. - Difficulty breathing: Breathing becomes labored, and the cat may start breathing through its mouth. - Ear and systemic symptoms: The cat may scratch its ears, shake its head, lose its appetite, or experience weight loss.

A cat experiencing difficulty breathing due to nasal polyps

Signs requiring immediate veterinary care

If your pet experiences severe difficulty breathing, persistent nosebleeds, fainting, or a sudden loss of appetite, seek veterinary care immediately. These symptoms may indicate that the polyp has grown significantly or that complications have developed.

How are nasal polyps diagnosed?

Nasal polyps are diagnosed by directly visualizing the interior of the nasopharynx via endoscopy to determine the polyp’s location and size. While X-rays can indirectly indicate the presence of a polyp, their low accuracy makes CT scans more useful. CT imaging reveals detailed structures and allows assessment of whether the polyp has invaded the bone. A biopsy helps confirm the nature of the polyp and differentiate it from other lesions. - Endoscopy: Essential for accurate diagnosis, as it allows direct visualization of the nasopharynx. - CT Scan: Clearly displays detailed structures, aiding in the precise determination of the lesion’s extent and any bone involvement. - Biopsy: A key procedure to confirm the histological nature of the polyp and distinguish it from other diseases.

Scene of a nasal endoscopy examination in a cat

How are nasal polyps treated?

The most common treatment for nasal polyps is traction removal, which involves pulling the polyp out under general anesthesia. The goal is to firmly grasp the polyp’s stalk with fine forceps and gently pull it out, rotating slightly if needed, to remove it intact. However, since traction removal alone leaves behind the mucosa where the polyp originated, recurrence rates are approximately 30–50%. Therefore, if the middle ear is involved, a bulla osteotomy is recommended. Potential complications include Horner’s syndrome or facial nerve paralysis, though Horner’s syndrome is usually temporary. Because recurrence is possible, regular postoperative follow-up examinations are essential. - Surgical Removal: The primary treatment involves grasping the stalk and removing the polyp via traction. - Medical Treatment: Some practitioners administer tapering doses of glucocorticoids for 4–6 weeks to reduce recurrence, although their efficacy has not been sufficiently proven. - Recurrence Management: Since polyps can regrow, regular follow-up examinations and ongoing management are necessary.

A cat recovering after nasal polyp surgery

Post-operative care points for nasal polyps

After surgery, it’s important to give your cat any prescribed medications exactly as directed by your veterinarian. Be careful to prevent them from rubbing or scratching their nose, and keep their environment clean to minimize irritation and the risk of infection. In some cases, a tapering dose of glucocorticoids may be administered over 4 to 6 weeks to help reduce the chance of recurrence, though this approach has not been definitively proven to be effective. Schedule a follow-up visit with your vet 1 to 2 weeks after surgery to check on your cat’s recovery and ensure the polyp hasn’t returned. If you notice a persistent loss of appetite or lethargy, contact your veterinarian right away. - Medication: Administer prescribed medications at the scheduled times. - Environment: Keep the living space clean and comfortable, minimizing dust. - Monitoring for Recurrence: Attend regular follow-up visits to ensure the polyp does not return.

A cat with a bandage on its nose after nasal polyp surgery

Comparison of nasal polyp treatment methods

Item	Surgery	Medication	Observation
Efficacy	High	Low	None
Possibility of Recurrence	Present (about 30–50%)	High	Very high
Cost	High	Low	Low
Suitable Cases	Confirmed lesion	Adjunct after surgery	No symptoms

Polyp removal is the main treatment, and since recurrence can occur in about 30–50% with traction removal alone, ventral bulla osteotomy is recommended when the middle ear is involved, and regular follow-up management is necessary.

Reviewed by a veterinarian

Dr. Tony — Punnawat Phongkittirak

Veterinarian

A veterinarian who majored in veterinary medicine at Khon Kaen University, Thailand, and completed the IVSA program at North Carolina State University in the United States. Drawing on clinical experience at animal hospitals, he works in the pet healthcare field and is dedicated to building a digital care environment that connects pet parents with veterinarians.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are nasal polyps common in cats?

Nasal polyps are not a common condition, but they are an important differential diagnosis to consider in young cats with upper respiratory symptoms. If nasal congestion, discharge, and snoring-like sounds persist, nasal polyps should be suspected.

Are nasal polyps malignant?

Nasal polyps are mostly benign, non-neoplastic inflammatory lesions and are not malignant tumors. However, they can gradually enlarge and obstruct breathing, so appropriate treatment is necessary. Because they are difficult to distinguish from other lesions based on appearance alone, a biopsy is recommended for definitive diagnosis.

Can nasal polyps recur after surgery?

There is a risk of recurrence, and if the polyp is removed only by traction, it may recur in approximately 30–50% of cases. Recurrence can be reduced by completely removing the mucosa from which the polyp originated and performing a bulla osteotomy if the middle ear is involved, and regular follow-up examinations are important.

Are nasal polyps caused by genetic factors?

The exact cause of nasal polyps remains unknown. Although they have been reported in various breeds, the lack of studies comparing affected dogs to a control group makes it difficult to definitively attribute the condition to specific breeds or genetic predispositions.

Do nasal polyps disappear on their own without treatment?

No, nasal polyps do not resolve on their own; instead, they tend to grow larger over time and can impair respiratory function. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential.

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References

[1] Ettinger SJ, Feldman EC, Côté E. Textbook of veterinary internal medicine: diseases of the dog and the cat. 8th ed. St. Louis, MO: Elsevier; 2017.

[2] Englar RE. Common clinical presentations in dogs and cats. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley-Blackwell; 2019.

[3] The Cat, Clinical Medicine and Management, 2nd Edition. London: BSAVA Publications; 2014.