Cat colds are upper respiratory infections characterized by all the same symptoms as the human cold. If your feline friend is sneezing or has a runny nose there's a good chance they have a cat cold. Here, our Franklin County vets explain more about cat colds and when to seek veterinary care.
Can cats get a cold?
Yes, they can. Sneezing and sniffles are signs that your cat has a cold, but you may be wondering how it happened in the first place. And, more importantly, how you can avoid it in the future.
Just like colds in humans, cat colds are contagious. This means that outdoor cats are more likely to find themselves with the cold virus than indoor cats because they are more likely to interact with other cats.
Upper respiratory infections (URI) in cats are caused by bacteria or viruses. It is not contagious to humans, but it easily spreads between cats, especially in crowded environments. So, if you recently boarded your cat and they now have cold-like symptoms, it's likely that your cat was in close proximity to another cat suffering from an upper respiratory infection.
Choosing a reputable boarding provider could also help to reduce the chances of increasing your pet's stress levels, and will make it less likely for your cat to develop a URI.
What are the signs of colds in cats?
If you notice that your cat is displaying one or more of the following symptoms of a cat cold, it is possible that they are suffering from a urinary tract infection (URI).
- sneezing
- sniffles
- watery eyes
- runny nose
- mild fever
More Severe Symptoms
- reduced appetite
- coughing
What to Do if Your Cat Has a Cold
If your cat has a cold, you can help them feel less uncomfortable by wiping their runny nose with a clean cloth, and runny eyes with a cloth and saline solution. You can also run a humidifier so the air isn't too dry.
If your cat seems to be stuffed up, making breathing a little difficult, secure them in their pet carrier, put a bowl of hot water in front of the cage, and cover both with a blanket for about 15 minutes.
It is critical that your cat continues to eat and drink so that it can recover as quickly as possible. Warming up and making food easier to swallow may make this process more appealing to them. They need to stay warm as well, so put an extra blanket in their bed or favorite place to curl up.
Make sure that you never give your cat any medication for the common cold or any other medication without first consulting your veterinarian. To find out what your veterinarian recommends for your pet, you should always consult with them.
How will I know if my cat needs to see a vet?
In most cases, cat colds are harmless and will go away within 1-2 weeks. You do need to monitor their health, however, and if there is no sign of improvement by the fourth day, you should make an appointment with your vet as a persisting cold that does not get treated properly may develop into pneumonia.
As with humans, older cats, kittens, and cats with other conditions that may make them more susceptible to the effects of a cold should be handled with caution. This is especially true for kittens who are nursing or have not been vaccinated. Make an appointment right away if your cat falls into one of these categories.
It is imperative that you take your cat to the veterinarian as soon as possible if they start coughing, if they are having trouble breathing, or if they have stopped eating.
How to Prevent Your Cat from Getting a Cold
To prevent a cat from getting a cold, it is important to ensure they have a warm and dry environment. Keep your cat indoors during cold and wet weather to minimize their exposure to the elements. Additionally, make sure they have access to a cozy bed or blanket to keep them warm.
Regularly clean your cat's living space, including their bedding and litter box, to prevent the buildup of germs and bacteria that can contribute to illness. Provide your cat with a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals to support their immune system. If you notice any signs of illness such as sneezing, coughing, or lethargy, consult with your veterinarian for an exam.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.