Not much to add. Dog tolerates it and price is good
Cats can develop cold-like illnesses that affect the nose, throat, and eyes, especially after exposure to other infected cats. Some cases are mild and improve with supportive care, while others require veterinary attention.
What Is an Upper Respiratory Infection in Cats?
An Upper Respiratory Infection in Cats affects structures such as the nose, sinuses, throat, and sometimes the eyes. These infections are particularly common in shelters, boarding facilities, multi-cat households, and other environments where cats have close contact.
Viruses cause many feline respiratory infections. Common causes include:
- Feline herpesvirus (FHV-1)
- Feline calicivirus (FCV)
- Certain bacterial infections
- Secondary bacterial infections following a viral illness
Young kittens, older cats, and those with weaker immune defenses may be at greater risk of developing more severe symptoms.
Common Symptoms to Watch For
Symptoms may differ depending on what caused the infection and how severe it becomes. Common symptoms include:
- Frequent sneezing
- Runny or congested nose
- Watery or discharge-filled eyes
- Coughing or gagging in some cats
- Reduced appetite
- Low energy
- Fever
- Squinting or irritated eyes
- Noisy breathing
Cats often rely heavily on their sense of smell when eating. Nasal congestion can therefore make food less appealing and may cause some cats to eat less than usual.
How Do Cats Get Respiratory Infections?
An Upper Respiratory Infection in Cats can spread through saliva and respiratory secretions released when an infected cat sneezes or coughs.
Cats may also be exposed through contaminated objects such as:
- Food and water bowls
- Bedding
- Toys
- Grooming equipment
- Litter-area surfaces
Some viruses can remain in a cat’s body after recovery and may reactivate during periods of stress.
If you have several cats, separating a sick cat and regularly cleaning shared items may help reduce exposure.
How Is It Treated?
Your cat’s treatment plan will depend on what is causing the infection and how seriously the symptoms are affecting them.
Mild cases may primarily need supportive care. Your veterinarian may suggest keeping your cat hydrated, gently cleaning discharge from the nose and eyes, and encouraging eating.
Other treatments may include:
- Eye medications when appropriate
- Antibiotics when a bacterial infection is suspected
- Fluids for dehydration
- Medication for specific symptoms or complications
- Nutritional support if the cat is not eating adequately
Antibiotics do not treat viral infections, so use them only when prescribed by a veterinarian.
Never give your cat human cold medicines unless your veterinarian specifically instructs you to.
Helping Your Cat Feel More Comfortable
While your cat recovers, provide a quiet, warm resting area and easy access to fresh water.
You can also try offering aromatic wet food to encourage eating when nasal congestion reduces your cat’s sense of smell.
Keeping routine parasite prevention up to date is another important part of your cat’s overall healthcare. Explore our cat flea, tick, and parasite treatments to find products suitable for your pet.
For more information about common feline infections, read:
- Feline Herpesvirus: Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention
- Calicivirus in Cats: Symptoms, Spread, and Treatment
- FIV in Cats: Symptoms, Transmission, Testing, and Care
These related guides can help cat owners better understand illnesses that may affect their pets.
When Should You Contact a Veterinarian?
Many mild respiratory infections improve with proper care, but veterinary attention is important if your cat:
- Has difficulty breathing
- Stops eating or drinking
- Becomes extremely weak or lethargic
- Develops severe eye problems
- Has symptoms that continue or worsen
- Is a very young kitten, senior cat, or has an existing medical condition
Always treat breathing difficulty as urgent.
Can Upper Respiratory Infections Be Prevented?
It may not be possible to prevent every Upper Respiratory Infection in Cats, but several measures can reduce the risk.
Keep vaccinations current based on your veterinarian’s recommendations, maintain good hygiene in multi-cat homes, clean shared bowls and bedding, and limit unnecessary contact with sick cats.
Regular veterinary examinations and appropriate preventive healthcare can also help keep your cat healthier.
Final Thoughts
Most feline respiratory infections can be managed successfully when you recognize symptoms early. Watch for changes in your cat’s breathing, appetite, eyes, and energy levels, and contact your veterinarian if symptoms become severe or don't improve.
Along with vaccination, good hygiene, proper nutrition, and regular parasite prevention, early veterinary care can help keep your cat healthy and comfortable.
