Cats and Colds: What Every Cat Owner Should Know

As a cat owner, it is essential to be aware of the health concerns that can affect your furry friend. One such concern is whether cats can get "colds." While not identical to the common cold that humans experience, cats can suffer from respiratory infections that share some similarities. These feline respiratory issues can have a significant impact on your cat's well - being. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and prevention methods is crucial for providing the best care. Cats are susceptible to various viruses, bacteria, and fungi that can target their respiratory systems. Knowledge about these potential threats allows cat owners to be vigilant and take proactive measures to keep their cats healthy.

What "Colds" Mean for Cats?

Cats can suffer from respiratory infections that may seem similar to human colds. These are usually caused by viruses, bacteria, or sometimes fungi. The most common feline respiratory viruses are feline herpesvirus - 1 (FHV - 1) and feline calicivirus (FCV). These viruses are highly contagious among cats, especially in multi - cat households, shelters, or catteries.

What Causes Colds in Cats?

• Viral Infections

Feline herpesvirus (FHV) and Feline Calicivirus (FCV) are the most common viruses that cause colds in cats. These viruses are highly contagious and can be spread to other cats through direct contact, droplet transmission or sharing of items. 

Also Read: Cat Herpes: FVR and FHV-1 Symptoms and Treatments

• Bacterial and mycoplasma infections

Bacteria and mycoplasmas can also cause respiratory infections in cats, such as Mycoplasma felineum and Chlamydia. These pathogens are usually parasitic in a cat's respiratory tract, and they can trigger infections when a cat's immune system is compromised. 

• Environmental factors

Cold weather, sudden changes in temperature, humid environments or overcrowded living conditions may make cats susceptible to colds. In addition, cats that are in air-conditioned rooms for a long period of time or are wet from rain and not dried in a timely manner may also lead to colds. 

• Stress reaction

Cats experiencing strong stress reactions, such as moving, introduction of new pets, change of owner or traveling, may result in decreased immunity and thus be susceptible to cold and flu viruses. 

• Unbalanced nutrition or lack of exercise

If a cat has an unbalanced diet or lacks proper exercise, it may lead to a decrease in its immunity and increase the risk of catching a cold. 

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Cat Colds?

I. Nasal Symptoms

• Sneezing

This is the more common initial symptom of cat colds. The cat may sneeze occasionally and the frequency of sneezing may increase as the condition progresses.

• Runny nose

It may start out as a clear nasal discharge, then may become thick and may turn white or yellow in color. This indicates that there may be inflammation or a secondary bacterial infection.

II. Eye symptoms

• Tears

The cat's eyes will produce more tears than usual and the corners of the eyes are often wet.

• Inflammation of the conjunctiva

The conjunctiva of the eye may become red and swollen, the eye looks a little swollen and red, and there may be a small amount of eye droppings.

III. Respiratory Symptoms

• Cough

Coughing symptoms occur when a cold affects the cat's trachea and bronchial tubes. The cough may be an occasional dry cough or a cough with phlegm.

• Increased breath sounds

When breathing, you may hear a more pronounced breathing sound than usual, similar to the sound of huffing and puffing, which is due to the presence of inflammation in the respiratory tract or increased secretions.

IV. Systemic Symptoms

• Loss of spirit

The cat will become more lethargic than usual, no longer as active as usual, and spend more time lying down or hiding in a corner to sleep.

• Decreased appetite

Decreased interest in food and may eat less or even nothing at all. If the cold lasts for a long time and is not intervened, the cat may experience weight loss.

• Increased body temperature

A normal cat's body temperature is between 38 - 39.5°C. If the cold is accompanied by a fever, the temperature may exceed this range. However, fever in cats is sometimes harder to detect and needs to be measured accurately with a thermometer.

Related: Upper Respiratory Infection in Cats: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

How to Treat Cat Cold?

1. Medication

• Antibiotics

If the cat's cold is caused by bacterial infection, it can be treated with antibiotics.

• Antiviral drugs

If the cat's cold is caused by a viral infection, such as feline herpes virus or feline cup virus, it can be treated with antiviral drugs.

• Cough and wheezing medication

If your cat has a cough, you can use cough suppressant and asthma medication. 

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• Anti-fever medication

Anti-fever medication can be used if your cat has a fever. 

• Nutritional supplements

Nutritional supplements such as coenzyme A, adenosine triphosphate, insulin, vitamin B6, 10% dextrose, etc. can be given to the cat during the treatment period in order to help the cat regain its strength. 

2. Non-drug treatment

• Keep warm

Make sure your cat lives in a warm, dry environment, avoiding cold and dampness. A warm litter or blanket can be provided for the cat, especially during the cold season or in air-conditioned rooms. 

• Nutritional support

Provide high-quality cat food to ensure that cats consume enough protein and nutrients to strengthen their immunity. 

• Maintain cleanliness

Keep your cat's living environment clean and regularly clean the litter box and cat toys to minimize the spread of bacteria and viruses. 

• Reduce Stress

Minimize the cat's stress reaction, such as avoiding frequent changes in the environment or introducing new pets to reduce the risk of cat colds. 

3.Precautions

Before using any medication, it is best to consult your veterinarian to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the medication.

If your cat's symptoms continue to show no improvement or if it develops severe respiratory distress or a high fever that does not go away, you should take your cat to the veterinarian immediately to prevent the condition from worsening.
 
It is not recommended to bathe, deworm or vaccinate your cat during a cat cold to avoid aggravating the condition. 

When to See a Veterinarian

While most colds are mild, seek professional help if your cat:

• Stops eating or drinking for more than 24 hours.
• Develops labored breathing or wheezing.
• Shows signs of dehydration or severe lethargy.
• Has discharge that is yellow or green, indicating a possible bacterial infection.

A vet may prescribe antibiotics for secondary infections or antiviral medications for severe cases.

FAQs

Do cat colds resolve on their own?

Conclusion

Cats can get colds, often caused by common viruses like feline herpesvirus or calicivirus. While most cases are mild, providing comfort and care can help your cat recover quickly. Preventative measures such as vaccination and reducing stress can help keep your cat healthy and cold-free. If your cat shows severe symptoms or doesn’t improve within a week, consult your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Share this article with fellow cat lovers to spread awareness about feline colds and their care!