Upper Respiratory Infections in Cats
Also known as Feline Upper Respiratory Tract Infection, Feline URI
Common in cats, URIs cause sneezing, runny nose. Vet care often needed.
See a vet now if
- Persistent symptoms
- Labored breathing
Symptoms
Early signs
- Sneezing
- Watery eyes
As it progresses
- Green or yellow nasal discharge
- Fever
Emergency signs
- Difficulty breathing
- Refusal to eat
Causes
- Feline herpesvirus
- Feline calicivirus
Risk factors
- Shelter environments
- Unvaccinated cats
Body parts affected
How vets diagnose it
- Physical examination
- PCR testing
Treatment
At home
- Ensure hydration
- Encourage eating
At the vet
- Antibiotics
- Antiviral medications
Prevention
- Vaccinate against FHV and FCV
- Quarantine new or sick cats
Outlook
- Prognosis
- Most cats recover well with treatment.
- Typical recovery
- 1-3 weeks
Upper Respiratory Infections in Cats questions
Can humans catch URIs from cats?
No, feline URIs are not zoonotic.
How long does a URI last in cats?
Typically 1-3 weeks with treatment.
Can URIs recur in cats?
Yes, especially if caused by FHV, as the virus can remain latent.
Are certain cats more prone to URIs?
Kittens and shelter cats are at higher risk.
How are URIs transmitted among cats?
Through sneezes, shared food bowls, and close contact.
Full clinical detail
Overview
Upper Respiratory Infections (URIs) in cats are common and can range from mild to severe. They are similar to the common cold in humans and primarily affect the nasal passages and throat. Prompt veterinary attention is recommended to prevent complications.
Causes
URIs in cats are typically caused by viral infections, most commonly the feline herpesvirus (FHV) and feline calicivirus (FCV). Bacterial infections like Bordetella bronchiseptica or Chlamydophila felis can also contribute.
Symptoms & Signs
Early Symptoms
- Sneezing
- Watery eyes
Advanced Symptoms
- Green or yellow nasal discharge
- Fever
Emergency Signs
- Difficulty breathing
- Refusal to eat
Diagnosis
Diagnosis involves a physical examination by a veterinarian and may include tests like PCR to identify specific viruses, or cultures for bacterial infections.
Treatment Options
Home Care
- Ensure hydration
- Encourage eating with strong-smelling foods
Veterinary Treatment
- Antibiotics for bacterial infections
- Antiviral medications
Home Care
Provide a warm and humid environment, use a humidifier, and keep the cat away from other pets to prevent spread.
Prevention
- Vaccinate against FHV and FCV
- Quarantine new or sick cats
Prognosis & Recovery
With timely treatment, most cats recover well from URIs. Severe cases may require more extensive treatment.
When to See a Vet
- Persistent symptoms beyond a few days
- Labored breathing
FAQ
- Can humans catch URIs from cats? No, feline URIs are not zoonotic.
- How long does a URI last in cats? Typically 1-3 weeks with treatment.
- Can URIs recur in cats? Yes, especially if caused by FHV, as the virus can remain latent.
- Are certain cats more prone to URIs? Kittens and shelter cats are at higher risk.
- How are URIs transmitted among cats? Through sneezes, shared food bowls, and close contact.
Worried about your pet?
This page is general guidance, not a diagnosis. A vet should examine your pet before any treatment starts.