Just like us, cats can get colds, also known as feline upper respiratory infections, or URIs. If your feline friend is sneezing and congested, you might be wondering, “How do you treat a cold in a cat?”
The good news is that many cat colds can be managed at home with some tender loving care. This article will give you the information you need to help your kitty feel better.
However, it’s important to remember that if your cat’s symptoms worsen or don’t improve with home care, a visit to the vet is crucial.
How cats catch colds
Cat colds are upper respiratory infections (URIs) that spread easily between cats. Usually, they’re caused by either viruses or bacteria.
Cats who spend time outdoors are more likely to catch a cold. Cats in boarding facilities also have a higher risk, partly because the stress can weaken their immune systems. Colds spread faster when cats spend time in close quarters.
Recognizing the symptoms of a cat cold
You’ll probably recognize a cold in your cat right away because the symptoms are so similar to the symptoms we experience when we have a cold.
Common symptoms
- Sneezing and sniffles. Your cat may sneeze frequently and persistently.
- Runny nose and watery eyes. The discharge from the nose and eyes may be clear, or it may be colored.
- Mild fever and reduced appetite. These symptoms can lead to lethargy or lack of energy.
- Coughing. The coughing may be mild, or it may be more noticeable.
When to watch for more severe symptoms
Here are some symptoms that indicate your cat needs to be seen by a veterinarian:
- Difficulty breathing, wheezing, or rapid breathing
- Severe loss of appetite or dehydration (refusal to eat or drink for more than 24 hours)
- Lethargy or weakness (significant decrease in activity level)
Home care for a cat with a cold
If your vet says your cat can be treated at home, here are some ways to ease your kitty’s discomfort and help them get well.
Symptom Relief
- Gently wipe away the discharge from your cat’s runny nose and eyes using a soft, damp cloth. A saline solution can be helpful for cleaning around the eyes.
- Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air. If you don’t have a humidifier, you can create a humid environment by placing a bowl of hot water near your cat in their carrier.
Supporting Your Cat’s Recovery
- Make sure your cat stays warm and comfortable. Provide extra blankets and a cozy, quiet resting spot where they can relax and recover.
- Encourage your cat to eat and drink. Offer warmed, palatable food to stimulate their appetite. And of course, make sure fresh water is always within easy reach.
Is it a cold, or allergies?
It can be tough to tell the difference between a cold and allergies in cats. Both can cause sneezing, a runny nose, and watery eyes.
A key difference is that allergies are often chronic. So, while a cold will usually clear up in a week or two, allergy symptoms tend to stick around. Allergy symptoms may also include skin irritation, digestive problems, or constant itching.
If you’re not sure what’s going on, your vet can help you get a diagnosis.
When to see a vet
Most cat colds resolve themselves within a few days. However, you should seek veterinary care in the following situations:
- Your cat’s symptoms worsen or don’t improve after four days. This could be a sign of a secondary infection or a more serious problem.
- Your cat has trouble breathing, stops eating, or seems dehydrated.
- Your cat is very young, very old, immunocompromised, or unvaccinated, as these cats are at greater risk of complications.
Never give your cat any human medications without talking to your vet first.
The Bottom Line
If your cat has a cold, you can help her feel better by keeping her clean, using a humidifier, making sure she’s warm, and encouraging her to eat and drink.
But if her symptoms get worse or if she’s very young, very old, or has another medical condition, she needs to see a veterinarian. With the right care, most cats recover from a cold in a week or two.