If your feline friend is sneezing and congested, they might just have a cold. Feline upper respiratory infections, or FURIs, are common in cats and kittens. The good news is that cat colds are usually not life-threatening.
But what can you do to make your kitty more comfortable? This article provides guidance on how to treat a cat with a cold at home. We’ll also cover when a trip to the vet is essential.
What is a cat cold?
What most people think of as a “cat cold” is actually feline upper respiratory infection, or FURI, a contagious infection of a cat’s upper respiratory tract.
Feline URI can be caused by viruses or bacteria.
How cats catch colds
Cat colds are contagious, so if your cat spends time outdoors, they’re more likely to catch a cold due to increased exposure to other cats. Cats in boarding facilities or shelters are also at higher risk of catching a feline URI.
Cats of all ages can get a cold, but young kittens, senior cats, and cats with weakened immune systems are more likely to develop complications from a cold.
What are the signs and symptoms of a cat cold?
The symptoms of a cold in cats will vary depending on the specific virus or bacteria causing the infection and the cat’s overall health and immune system function. But some of the most common symptoms include:
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
- Watery eyes
- Coughing
- Congestion
- Loss of appetite
- Fever
- Dehydration
If your cat is having trouble breathing, coughing severely, or refuses to eat or drink, you should seek immediate veterinary care.
Home care for a cat with a cold
Taking care of your feline friend when they’re under the weather involves providing comfort, encouraging them to eat and drink, and keeping a close eye on their condition.
Providing comfort
Make sure your cat is warm and cozy. Offer an extra blanket for snuggling.
If your cat is congested, you can try a humidifier to add moisture to the air or bring your cat into a steamy bathroom for about 15 minutes.
Gently wipe away any discharge from your cat’s nose and eyes with a warm, damp cloth. For the eyes, a bit of saline solution can also help.
Encouraging eating and drinking
Offer your cat some tempting food. Extra-special wet food or warming their regular food slightly can make it more appealing.
Make sure they have easy access to fresh water to prevent dehydration.
If your cat refuses to eat, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian.
Monitoring and observation
Keep a close watch on your cat for any changes in their symptoms or behavior. Look for signs that they’re getting better or if their condition is worsening.
Keep in mind that secondary bacterial infections are possible, so staying vigilant is key.
Cat cold or allergies?
It’s easy to mistake a cat cold for allergies because their symptoms are so similar. Both can cause sneezing, a runny nose, and watery eyes.
However, allergies are usually triggered by specific substances and tend to be chronic. In addition to cold-like symptoms, allergic reactions often cause digestive problems or skin irritation.
If your cat’s symptoms are persistent or keep coming back, talk to your vet about the possibility of allergies.
When to see a vet
It’s always best to err on the side of caution when your feline friend is sick.
Get immediate veterinary attention if your cat has trouble breathing, is coughing severely, refuses to eat, or seems very tired.
If your cat’s symptoms don’t improve after four days, you should also consult a vet. Kittens, senior cats, and cats with immune deficiencies need to be examined as soon as possible. Never give your cat human cold medicine without a vet’s explicit instructions.
Final Thoughts
The good news is that most cat colds are mild and will resolve on their own. The bad news is that a simple cold can sometimes lead to more serious problems.
To treat your cat’s cold at home, focus on supportive care, like keeping your kitty warm, comfortable, and hydrated. If your cat is very young, very old, or has a health condition, it’s always best to check with your veterinarian.
And if the symptoms worsen or don’t improve after a few days, don’t hesitate to seek professional veterinary care.