Cats, like humans, can suffer from ailments that mimic the common cold. While they don’t contract the exact same viruses that cause colds in people, they are susceptible to upper respiratory diseases that manifest with similar symptoms. These feline “colds” are typically caused by viral infections and, while often mild, can sometimes lead to more serious complications. Understanding the signs, causes, and how to manage these conditions is crucial for cat owners.
Recognizing “Cat Cold” Symptoms
The symptoms of a “cat cold” can vary but often include:
- Sneezing: Frequent and sometimes forceful expulsion of air from the nose.
- Runny nose: Discharge from the nostrils, which can be clear or colored.
- Watery eyes: Excessive tearing or discharge from the eyes.
- Coughing: A dry or wet cough, indicating irritation or inflammation in the respiratory tract.
- Lethargy: A noticeable decrease in activity and energy levels.
- Loss of appetite: Reduced interest in food, potentially due to a diminished sense of smell or taste.
- Fever: An elevated body temperature.
For many felines, these symptoms will resolve on their own within a week to ten days. However, it’s important to monitor your cat closely, as some may develop secondary complications. These can include bacterial infections, which might present as a yellow-green nasal or eye discharge. In more severe cases, cats can develop pneumonia, characterized by persistent coughing and difficulty breathing, which may necessitate hospitalization. A significant symptom to watch for is a loss of appetite, which can be exacerbated if the cat cannot smell or taste its food due to nasal congestion.
The Causes Behind Cat Colds
The primary culprits behind “cat colds” are viral infections. It is estimated that approximately 90% of these cases are caused by two main viruses: feline herpesvirus (FHV-1) and feline calicivirus (FCV).
Feline Herpesvirus (FHV-1)
Feline herpesvirus, also known as feline rhinotracheitis virus, is highly contagious, especially in environments where multiple cats are housed together, such as shelters or rescue organizations. Once a cat is infected, they will carry the virus for life. During dormant periods, the virus may not be actively replicating, and the cat may appear perfectly healthy. However, under stressful conditions that suppress the immune system, such as boarding or grooming, the virus can reactivate and cause symptoms like sneezing and runny eyes for a short duration.
Feline Calicivirus (FCV)
Cats infected with feline calicivirus often display symptoms similar to those caused by feline herpesvirus, and this virus is also highly contagious. A key differentiator is that cats with calicivirus are more prone to developing oral symptoms, including painful ulcers within the mouth.
Both feline herpesvirus and feline calicivirus are specific to cats and pose no threat to human health. Fortunately, vaccines are available for both viruses, and they are considered core vaccinations for both kittens and adult cats. While vaccination may not completely prevent infection, it can significantly reduce the severity of symptoms and protect against serious illness.
Veterinary Diagnosis of “Cat Colds”
When a cat presents with symptoms suggestive of a viral infection, a veterinarian will conduct a comprehensive physical examination. Providing a detailed medical history, including the onset and nature of the symptoms, is crucial for an accurate diagnosis.
Based on the examination findings, the vet may recommend diagnostic tests to rule out or identify complications. These can include blood work to assess overall health and chest X-rays to check for pneumonia, asthma, or fungal infections. For cats experiencing persistent or severe respiratory issues, an upper respiratory PCR panel might be suggested. This test involves collecting swabs from the eyes and nose to identify the specific virus or bacteria responsible for the symptoms. For milder cases, a PCR test is typically not necessary.
Treating and Managing a Cat With a Cold
Mild cases of “cat colds” often do not require specific medical treatment. However, several home care measures can help your cat feel more comfortable during recovery:
- Steam Therapy: Keep your cat in the bathroom with you while you take a hot shower. The humidity can help alleviate nasal congestion.
- Humidifier: If the air in your home is dry, especially during winter, a humidifier can help soothe airway irritation.
- Stress Reduction: Minimize stress during recovery. Confining your cat to a quiet, smaller room with easy access to food, water, a litter box, and a warm bed can be beneficial. Pheromone products may also help promote calmness.
For more severe cases, or when a secondary bacterial infection is present, antibiotics are often prescribed. These can be in the form of topical or oral medications administered at home. Antiviral medications may be used for cats suspected of having herpesvirus, particularly if symptoms are severe or if the cat has other immune-compromising conditions like feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV).
If your cat is severely ill, experiencing difficulty breathing, or refusing to eat, hospitalization for a day or two may be necessary until she is stable enough for home treatment.
Recovery and Outlook
Most healthy cats can fully recover from a “cat cold” without medical intervention within approximately seven to ten days. If medical treatment is required due to more severe symptoms or complications, the recovery period may be longer and more challenging.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can humans contract “cat colds”?
No, the primary viruses that cause upper respiratory infections in cats are not transmissible to humans.
Is there over-the-counter cold medicine for cats?
It is not recommended to use over-the-counter medications for cats without consulting your veterinarian. They can advise on safe and appropriate treatments.
