Cat sneezing-Don't try this without oven mitts on

My 11 year old tabby started sneezing a week ago and has never sneezed before (that I know of). Everything else is normal. As sneezing is a symptom of an upper respiratory tract infection I thought I'd check inside his mouth for ulcers which is another symptom. OUCH!!!! He did not like that at all and now I'm sporting a Micky Mouse Band Aid. The good news is no ulcers that I could see, the bad news (for him) is If he doesn't quit in the next few days off to the vet we go. (He hates the vet)