Just like us, cats can get colds, also known as feline upper respiratory infections (URIs). These are common in cats and kittens and, thankfully, usually resolve on their own.
If you’re feeling under the weather, there’s no need to worry about passing your cold to your cat. Likewise, you can’t catch a cold from your kitty.
So, can cats catch cold? Yes, but not the human version. Keep reading to learn more about the causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention of feline URIs.
What causes cat colds?
In most cases, cat colds are caused by viruses — almost 90% of them, in fact. The usual suspects are feline herpesvirus and feline calicivirus.
Even if your kitty is an indoor cat, they can still catch a virus if they’re exposed to a sick cat, including feral cats. It’s also possible for bacteria to cause upper respiratory infections (URIs) in cats. Some of the bacterial species that cause cat colds include Bordetella bronchiseptica and Chlamydophila felis.
However, sometimes stress or an underlying illness can bring on a cat cold.
“Viruses that cause colds can lie dormant in the system,” explains Heidi Elswick, DVM. “So even if your cat has been indoors and not around other cats, in periods of stress or unrelated illness, those viruses can reactivate, causing your cat to come down with a cold.”
Outdoor cats and cats in boarding facilities are more likely to catch colds.
Recognizing the symptoms of a cat cold
If your cat is sneezing, has a runny nose or watery eyes, and seems congested or sniffly, they may have caught a cold. They may also have a mild fever.
More serious symptoms, such as coughing, loss of appetite, or lethargy, warrant a trip to the vet. Difficulty breathing is an emergency.
Sometimes, the symptoms may be hard to spot.
“Cats like to hide their symptoms, so it might just look like your cat is depressed or that they’re hiding more than usual,” says Emergency and Critical Care Veterinarian Amy Elswick, DVM.
It’s important to monitor your cat closely for any change in behavior. If they seem less active or are hiding more than usual, that could be a sign that they’re not feeling well.
Contact your veterinarian if you suspect your cat has a cold. They can run tests to determine the cause of your cat’s symptoms and recommend the best course of treatment.
Treating a cat cold: comfort and care
Most cat colds are pretty mild and will resolve on their own with a little TLC. Make sure your kitty has a warm, comfy place to rest and is drinking plenty of fresh water. You can also try warming their food a bit to make it more appealing.
If your cat is congested, try running a humidifier to add moisture to the air. Or, bring your cat into the bathroom while you run a hot shower and let them relax in the steam.
If your cat’s symptoms don’t improve within 4 days, or if they’re very young, old, or have other health problems, it’s time to see the vet. You should also seek veterinary care if your cat has trouble breathing or isn’t eating.
One thing you should never do is give your cat human cold medicine. It can be toxic to them.
Preventing cat colds: Vaccination and hygiene
While there’s no shot to prevent the common cold in humans, there is a vaccine to help protect your cat, says Elswick.
Vaccination
Vaccines can help reduce how often your cat gets sick and how serious the infections are.
Hygiene and management
The best way to keep your cat from getting a cold is to limit their exposure to other sick animals.
- Keep your cat indoors.
- Quarantine any new cats before introducing them to your current pets.
- Clean and disinfect food and water bowls regularly.
- When boarding your cat, choose a reputable facility to reduce stress.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you know if a cat has a cold?
If your cat is sneezing, coughing, has watery eyes, a runny nose, is congested, or has a decreased appetite, it’s possible they have a cold. They might also be lethargic or have a fever. If you notice these symptoms, it’s best to consult with your veterinarian to rule out more serious conditions.
Can an indoor cat catch a cold?
Yes, even indoor cats can catch a cold. The viruses that cause upper respiratory infections in cats can be transmitted through direct contact with other cats or contaminated objects like food bowls or bedding. You could also inadvertently bring the virus into your home on your clothing or shoes.
Can cat colds go away on their own?
In many cases, a mild cat cold will clear up on its own within a week or two with supportive care. However, if your cat’s symptoms are severe, worsen over time, or if they stop eating or drinking, it’s crucial to seek veterinary attention. Complications like pneumonia can occur, especially in young kittens or cats with weakened immune systems.
What to give a cat for a cold?
Never give human medications to your cat without consulting your veterinarian, as many are toxic to cats. Instead, focus on supportive care, such as providing a warm, comfortable environment, offering palatable food, and encouraging them to drink plenty of fluids. A humidifier can also help ease congestion. Your vet may prescribe antiviral medication or antibiotics to treat secondary bacterial infections.
Final Thoughts
Cat colds are pretty common, and they’re usually not too serious. However, it’s important to keep an eye on your cat and make sure you’re providing the right kind of care. Vaccinating your cat and keeping their environment clean can go a long way toward keeping them healthy.
If your cat’s symptoms get worse or don’t seem to be improving, be sure to consult with your veterinarian. With prompt care and attention, most cats make a full recovery from a cold and can get back to their usual purrfect selves in no time.