Common Cold in cats

Cats cannot get the common cold from humans; they are still susceptible to contracting other respiratory diseases.

Upper respiratory infections (URIs) are the most common type of cold in cats and can be caused by viruses, bacteria, and fungi. These infections can be easily spread between cats, particularly in crowded and stressful environments like animal shelters. Additionally, even indoor cats can catch colds if they come in contact with contaminated items, people, or other animals.

Feline herpesvirus 1 and feline calicivirus are the most common viruses causing around 90% of URIs in cats while bacterial infections are often caused by Bordetella bronchiseptica, various Mycoplasma species, and Chlamydia felis. Fungal infections are caused by Cryptococcus neoformans or C. gattii and Aspergillus.

If you notice any of the following symptoms of upper respiratory infections in your cat, it is best to contact your veterinarian:

• Sneezing
• Nasal discharge (clear, yellow, or green)
• Runny eyes
• Inflammation in the eyelids and tissues around the eyeball (conjunctivitis)
• Coughing
• Sores in the mouth or on the nose
• Congestion
• Snoring
• Loss of appetite
• Fever
• Voice changes

CURE:

• It is important to ensure that your cat is eating well and drinking adequate water. If your cat is reluctant to eat, try offering strong-smelling canned food. This is particularly helpful if your cat is affected by upper respiratory infections (URIs), as the stronger the smell, the more likely your cat is to be interested in eating.
• Also, it is recommended to keep your cat isolated from other cats in the household to prevent the spread of infections and reduce stress.
• Additionally, ensure that your cat is in a stress-free and quiet environment.
• If your cat is congested, you can use a humidifier or place your cat in a bathroom with the shower running until the room is steamy. This can help to break up congestion. However, do not put your cat in the shower or get them wet.