My Cat Has a Cold
You hear your cat sniffle once while you're cuddling one evening, and then it happens again...and again...and again. Then the sneezes start and you feel a sense of dread. Just like us, our cats may sniffle and sneeze if they have a cold. Cat colds are triggered by an upper respiratory infection URI), which is caused by a virus or bacteria.
In another similarity to human colds, cat colds are contagious. This means that outdoor cats are at higher risk of catching a cold virus than indoor cats because they will be more likely to interact with other cats. The same goes for cats that spend time in boarding facilities. Reputable boarding facilities will require cats who stay there to have all of their core vaccinations up to date, including the ones for feline herpesvirus (feline rhinotracheitis) and feline calicivirus.
It's important to understand that cat colds cannot be transmitted to humans (and conversely, you cannot give your human cold to a cat).
What are signs of colds in cats?
Cats who have come down with a cold (URI) may display one or more of these symptoms:
- Sniffles
- Mild fever
- Sneezing
- Watery eyes
More severe symptoms include:
- Coughing
- Reduced appetite
Does my cat have allergies or a cold?
Some cats may experience seasonal or environmental allergies triggered by pollen from a plant or something that's used in the home, such as perfume or household cleaners.
Your vet may recommend allergy relief supplements to help alleviate seasonal allergy symptoms. You might also need to install an air filter to keep allergens out of your house and dedicate an area in your home to your feline friend, without allergens or open windows to let in substances that may irritate their system.
If you suspect your cat is experiencing seasonal allergies, book an appointment with your veterinarian to have them tested and identify the specific allergy.
What to Do If Your Cat Has a Cold
If your cat has a cold, wiping their runny nose with a clean cloth may help them to feel more comfortable. For runny eyes, use a cloth and saline solution. You might also consider running a humidifier to help make the air less dry.
Is your cat stuffed up? They may be having difficulty breathing. You can secure them in a pet carrier, place a bowl of hot water in front of the cage and cover both with a blanket for about 15 minutes.
It's important that your cat continues to eat and drink so they gain strength and feel better quicker. Warming up their food and choosing food that's easier to swallow can make this process more appealing to them. Also, make sure they stay warm - you may wish to place an extra blanket in their bed or favorite area to nap.
Never give human cold medication (or provide any medication without your veterinarian's advice) to your cat, as this can result in a veterinary emergency. Always speak to your vet to learn what they recommend for your pet.
How will I know if my cat needs to see a vet?
In most cases, cat colds are harmless and will go away on their within 1-2 weeks. However, if you notice your cat's cold isn't getting better or is worsening by the fourth day of their infection, you should bring them to the vet. In some cases, cat colds may develop into pneumonia, particularly if your cat is a kitten, a senior, or is immunocompromised.
In any case, if your cat begins coughing, has difficulty breathing, or stops eating or drinking, they need to see a vet as soon as possible.
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.