Can a kitten get an upper respiratory infection?

Dr. Tarantino is part of The Spruce Pets’ veterinary review board. Upper respiratory infections are very common in cats, especially kittens and shelter cats. These infections usually respond well to treatment, though some cats can become quite ill, with severe cases occasionally becoming pneumonia. What Is an Upper Respiratory Infection?

Why are flat faced cats more susceptible to upper respiratory infections?

Unvaccinated cats, cats that are under stress, and cats that are immunosuppressed because of conditions such as feline leukemia virus (FeLV) or feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) are also at greater risk. Flat-faced cats, such as Persians, seem particularly susceptible to upper respiratory infections.

Who is most at risk for upper respiratory infections?

Unvaccinated cats, cats that are under stress, and cats that are immunosuppressed because of conditions such as feline leukemia virus (FeLV)or feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) are also at greater risk. Flat-faced cats, such as Persians, seem particularly susceptible to upper respiratory infections.

What can I give my Cat for an upper respiratory infection?

Apple cider vinegar has become a holistic go-to as a food supplement. However, vinegar won’t help your cat fight off upper respiratory infections, and vinegar should never be applied to your cat’s eyes, nose, throat, or skin. For your cat’s well-being and your own peace of mind, you can help prevent upper respiratory infections.

What should I do if my cat has an upper respiratory infection?

Treatment of upper respiratory infections in cats is symptomatic, and common treatments include the following: Systemic antibiotics to treat and prevent bacterial infections. Soft food with a strong odor to encourage affected cats to eat. Antibiotic eye drops or ointments for cats with corneal ulcers. Antiviral eye drops for cats suspected of having FVR-associated corneal ulcers.

Does upper respiratory infection go away in cats?

Upper respiratory infections can last anywhere from 1 to 4 weeks, and most cats and kittens fully recover. However, very young kittens, older cats, cats who have never been vaccinated, and those with a suppressed immune system (such as cats with FeLV or FIV ) can develop life-threatening…

What are signs of respiratory infection in cats?

Sniffling, sneezing, clear to pus-like discharge from the eyes and/or nose, coughing and lethargy are common symptoms of an upper respiratory infection in cats.

Can you get a respiratory infection from your cat?

The answer to this question is both yes and no. Much like humans, cats can contract viruses that cause upper respiratory infections and show many of the same cold symptoms that we do. However, it’s important to note that you can’t catch a cold from your cat, since the viruses that affect felines don’t affect humans.

While cats have been known for many years to have nine lives, they can still come down with the sniffles just like humans do. Cats and especially kittens are very vulnerable to upper respiratory infections (better known in veterinary offices as URIs), especially when living together in large groups such as in shelters and catteries.

How to help your cat through a feline upper respiratory?

Place the cat on the towel with her head facing out in the middle of a long side. Pull the towel up behind her, snugly, and then pull one side up and around her, enclosing all four feet. Then bring the other side up and wrap it the other direction, snugly.

How long does it take for a cat to recover from an upper respiratory infection?

Regardless of the cause, most cases seem to recover spontaneously within 7-10 days. However, cats with a lowered immune system or kittens may be prone to complications that may even turn fatal if not treated effectively.

What to do if your kitten has an URI infection?

To prevent the kitten getting this disease you can do several things like: Keep the kitten indoor to prevent URI infections from other animals or cats. Minimize the stress of the kitten; you can play with them to make them happier. Infected kitten or cats need proper isolation to protect other animals and kitten.

What’s the recovery time for an upper respiratory infection in a cat?

Upper respiratory infections in cats are very hard to treat, he adds, especially the viral ones since there are no effective anti-viral medications. Recovery time: After five to seven days, upper respiratory infections in cats tend to wane.

How can I tell if my kitten has pneumonia?

Very young kittens have a higher incidence of pneumonia and some do not survive the infection. Diagnosing feline upper respiratory infection is generally based on physical exam findings and typical symptoms of fever, congestion, sneezing, watery eyes, nasal discharge and occasionally drooling.

How long does it take for upper respiratory infection to run its course?

Recovery of Upper Respiratory Infection in Cats. A virus will usually run its course in 1-4 weeks. If it persists longer, another vet appointment may be necessary. To prevent the infection from spreading to other cats, all items the cat has been in contact with should be sanitized.

What happens when a cat has an Uris infection?

Watery nasal discharge and a nice fever on top of that make matters even worse. Because the infection affects the nose, most cats will likely lose their sense of smell and, in turn, lose their appetite. Refusing food is not uncommon in cats with URIs.

Why does my kitten have an upper respiratory infection?

Just like humans, the kitten can get cold too and there is a disease called kitten Upper Respiratory Infections (URI) which is usually caused by some viruses or bacteria. The two most common viruses that like to infect kitten or cats are feline herpesvirus and feline calicivirus.

Can a flat faced Cat get an upper respiratory infection?

Cats who have recovered from URI can become carriers, and may experience recurrences when stressed. Certain breeds like Persians and other flat-faced breeds have a predisposition to develop upper respiratory infections due to their facial structure.

How long does it take for feline upper respiratory infection to resolve?

Feline Upper Respiratory Infection (URI) is similar to a common cold in humans. It is especially common in cats who have been exposed to a lot of other cats, such as at an animal shelter. URI is very rarely fatal, and usually resolves within one to three weeks. Treatment generally consists of supportive care.

Are there any home remedies for upper respiratory infection in cats?

Clinicare, Hill’s a/d, and Eukanuba Maximum-Calorie are some products that you can try. The consistency of these products is ideal for feeding through a syringe or a feeding tube, and they contain extra calories, which is appropriate for sick cats. [4] 8.

Is it normal for a cat to have rapid breathing?

Cats of any age and breed can experience rapid breathing. If your cat’s breathing irregularly, it’s time to seek immediate veterinary care as this is a potentially life-threatening issue. What is normal breathing (respiratory rate) in cats?

What’s the prognosis for a cat with a respiratory infection?

The prognosis for cats with calicivirus infections depends upon the severity of symptoms. Cats with uncomplicated upper respiratory disease, pneumonia, or oral ulcers may recover in days or weeks, while those with severe systemic disease have a much less favorable prognosis.

Which is the most common cause of respiratory disease in cats?

FCV causes about half of the respiratory infections that occur in cats, but feline alphaherpesvirus1 (sometimes called feline rhinotracheitis virus) is another common cause and sometimes dual infections occur. The bacterial species Chlamydia felis and Mycoplasma felis also cause respiratory disease, and may complicate FCV infections.

Can a cat have an upper respiratory infection?

Symptoms differ depending on the cause and location of the infection, but some common clinical signs of upper respiratory problems in cats include: Are Certain Cats Prone to Upper Respiratory Infections?

What causes a cat to have rapid breathing?

Causes of Rapid Breathing in Cats. Rapid breathing is often caused by a serious underlying condition. Potential causes can range from allergic reactions to illnesses to injuries. Breathing difficulties can be caused by: Asthma; Heartworm; Injury or Trauma; Pain; Allergic reaction; Pneumonia; Nervousness/Anxiety; Upper Respiratory Infection

Kittens, unvaccinated cats, elderly cats and cats with immune deficiencies are the most susceptible to upper respiratory infections. While there are different forms of upper respiratory infections, they share similar symptoms. They are as follows: Your cat may exhibit many or few of these symptoms. Cases change in severity from cat to cat.

Why does my cat have a lot of respiratory problems?

Feline calicivirus and feline herpes virus are responsible for 80 – 90% of all contagious upper respiratory problems in cats. Respiratory distress can occur for a number of different reasons. Some of the most common causes include: Asthma: this condition causes the airways to become inflamed, causing spasms.

What is the medical term for breathing difficulties in cats?

Dyspnea, Tachypnea and Panting in Cats. Diseases that affect the respiratory system, or the respiratory center in the brain, can bring about breathing difficulties. Troubled or labored breathing is medically referred to as dyspnea, and excessively rapid breathing is medically referred to as tachypnea (also, polypnea ).

What are the symptoms of an upper respiratory infection?

Generally associated with fever, sneezing, swollen lymph nodes and lung complications. A bacterial infection often associated with eye infections and mild sneezing. A bacterial infection with symptoms of ocular discharge and eye swelling. A viral infection of the intestines that can sometimes mimic symptoms of a respiratory infection.

How do you treat a cat with a respiratory infection?

Treating cats with upper respiratory infections often depends on the severity of the infection. Your veterinarian may prescribe oral medications, nebulization treatments, subcutaneous fluid therapy, or rest. Nutritional support can also help alleviate the symptoms of upper respiratory infections.

What are the symptoms of Uri in cats?

URI will first show up with the symptoms of your cat having a running or red nose, nasal congestion, and watery eyes; as well as ulcers on the tongue, gums, nose, and the roof of their mouth.

Is cat upper respiratory infection contagious?

Feline upper respiratory infection is very contagious and 80 percent of cats that have contracted the infection are contagious for months or years. They become carriers and can spread the disease when they come in close contact with other pets. If these cats become ill or suffer from stress,…

Are there other cats in the household at risk of infection?

Are other cats in the household at risk of infection? A cat that has an acute upper respiratory infection will be infective to other cats during the incubation period and for up to 3 weeks after developing symptoms.

What kind of pneumonia can a kitten get?

FCV may cause a transient arthritis (‘limping syndrome’), usually seen in young kittens, and in very young kittens can cause severe viral pneumonia. Although FCV and FHV are viral infections, secondary infection with bacteria is common and can contribute to rhinitis (infection in the nose) conjunctivitis,…

Can I Cure my Cats’ upper respiratory infections myself?

Whether a cat’s upper respiratory infection is viral or bacterial, apple cider vinegar can help. You mix equal amounts of apple cider vinegar and water and rub some into your cat’s fur and onto their skin on the back of their neck.

How to stop a kitten from sneezing or drooling?

When the kitten is sneezing or drooling, wipe their nose, mouth, and eyes with clean and moistened washcloth. How to Stop Kitten from Bitting?

What kind of health issues do kittens have?

6 Kitten Health Issues to Watch For 1 Upper Respiratory Infections. 2 Feline Distemper. 3 Intestinal worms. 4 Coccidia. 5 Fleas. 6 (more items)

What are the symptoms of upper respiratory infections in kittens?

Symptoms: Sneezing is the main symptom of upper respiratory infections in cats, though sometimes kittens will develop a yellowy goopy discharge from their eyes and a runny nose. If your kitten is having trouble breathing or refuses to eat, the situation is more serious.

Can a cat have more than one respiratory infection?

There are a few other agents, including feline chlamydiosis, mycoplasma and Bordetella —and some cats may be infected with more than one respiratory infection virus. Fortunately, there are tests that can be done by your veterinarian to help narrow down the cause of the infection.

What kind of infection can a cat have?

Chlamydia and Bordetella-also commonly found in shelters and areas with multiple cats-are two such bacterial infections. Less common in cats than dogs, Bordetella is usually associated with stress and overcrowded living conditions.

Today, we’ll talk specifically about what your veterinarian is going to test for and how we’ll treat upper respiratory infections in cats. Unfortunately, upper respiratory tract infections (URIs) are super common in cats—especially those that were recently adopted or purchased.

What kind of disinfectant to use on cats with upper respiratory infection?

Hypochlorite (bleach-based) disinfectants (eg, 5% bleach diluted 1:32) are effective against these viruses, but take care to use any disinfectant carefully – most are irritant to cats if they come into direct contact with the disinfectant.

What causes a cat to get a cold?

If you see them in your cat, chances are, your cat has contracted an upper respiratory infection very similar to a cold. What causes cat colds? Cold like symptoms can be caused by either a viral or bacterial infection, although a viral infection is usually more common.

What kind of antibiotics should I give my Cat for upper respiratory infection?

Some of the antibiotics that the veterinarian may recommend include: 1 Clavamox (contains Clavulanic acid and Amoxicillin) 2 Baytril (contains Enrofloxacin) 3 Flagyl (contains metronidazole)

Is Kitten vomiting likely an emergency?

If a kitten vomits once or twice, but is otherwise acting normally, it is not an emergency . If vomiting is proceeded by retching and the vomit contains hair, then it is a hairball that can be ignored.

Is sneezing kitten contagious?

These are common in cats and kittens as they are rather contagious between cats. This is one of the most common causes of sneezing in cats. Because upper respiratory infections are easily transmitted between cats, they are found most commonly in places with a large number of cats such as shelters, rescues, boarding facilities, and catteries.

When to take your cat to the veterinary hospital?

As a rule of thumb, a sniffly kitty that is still eating, active and feeling fine can be watched for a few days. If the cat is not eating, seems listless or is congested enough that she needs to open her mouth to breathe—it is certainly time for a trip to the veterinary hospital.

Can a cat go to the vet for an upper respiratory infection?

Remember, antibiotics do NOT treat viral infections whatsoever, so for simple, routine upper respiratory infections in cats, they are not indicated. Can You Comfort Your Cat Without Going to the Vet?

What does chronic upper respiratory tract disease mean for cats?

Chronic (long-term) upper respiratory tract (URT) disease (also known as chronic nasal discharge) is a relatively common problem in cats, and can have many causes. The syndrome refers to chronic disease affecting the nose (nasal cavities) or the nasopharynx (the air passage immediately behind the nose).

What kind of test does a feline need for upper respiratory infection?

Tests for feline leukemia virus (FeLV) and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) Chronic upper respiratory infections require additional tests, such as radiographs to evaluate the lungs and sinuses, cultures of cells, and microscopic evaluation of discharge.

What kind of infection does a feline have?

Feline Upper Respiratory Infection. Less commonly, Mycoplasma spp. (bacteria) or a feline retrovirus, such as FIV or FeLV, are contributing factors in an upper respiratory infection. Bacteria and viruses are very contagious and are present in the saliva and discharge produced by the eyes and nose.

Are there any over the counter antibiotics for a cat with upper respiratory infection?

Is there any over the counter antibiotics for a cat with upper respiratory infection? Most upper respiratory infections in cats are caused by viruses. As a result antibiotics are of no use other than to prevent secondary infections. Viral infections need to run their course. Home care for a cat with a respiratory infection is supportive care.

What kind of disease does a 5 year old cat have?

Upper respiratory tract (URT) diseases are remarkably common in cats and can be both challenging in the acute state and frustrating in the chronic state. A 5-year-old cat with nasal discharge and sneezing is presented at your practice. What are your differential diagnoses? What diagnostics do you pursue?

What kind of virus can a kitten get?

The two most common viruses that like to infect kitten or cats are feline herpesvirus and feline calicivirus. How to Stop Kitten from Bitting? For your information, these viruses can be transmitted from one cat to another through sneeze, cough, foods, when they sharing bowls, and while they grooming.

What happens if a kitten has a latent infection?

Kittens with latent infections will not become ill; however, the infection can become reactivated. FeLV suppresses the immune system so that cats die of diseases they would otherwise be able to fight off. 11

Can a cat take antibiotics for a bacterial infection?

Although most of these infections are viral in nature, sometimes cat antibiotics are indeed indicated to protect against secondary bacterial infections or to treat potential primary bacterial infections, such as feline chlamydiosis and Bordetella. Your veterinarian can help to determine if antibiotics are needed or likely to be helpful.

Why are antibiotics not working for my kittens?

That’s a mistake because their immune systems are still vulnerable and they can suffer a relapse. Other reasons for antibiotics to fail include too low a dosage, choosing an antibiotic that the condition is able to resist and using an antibiotic that doesn’t destroy the bacteria.

How to take care of a cat with a respiratory infection?

Viral infections need to run their course. Home care for a cat with a respiratory infection is supportive care. An affected cat will have a decreased sense of smell from the congestion. Feeding canned foods slightly warmed will increase the aroma and entice eating. Use wet cotton balls to wipe any discharge from the nose and eyes.

When to give doxycycline to cats with upper respiratory problems?

If your vet diagnoses your kitty with a bacterial upper respiratory infection, an antibiotic is an important part of treatment. Doxycycline is a broad-spectrum antibiotic in the tetracycline class that’s sometimes prescribed for this purpose in cats.

What should a 6 week old kitten do?

Litter box training is possibly the most important training that your 6-week old kitten should get. When your kitten still lives with their mom, urination is mostly assisted by mom who licks the kitten’s perineum to stimulate it. After they are weaned, they should start to be able to urinate on their own.

What kind of antibiotics can I give my Cat for an upper respiratory infection?

Oral antibiotics such as doxycycline, amoxicillin or one containing a mix of amoxicillin and clavulanic acid may be prescribed, depending on your little one’s particular case, according to the Manhattan Cat Specialists. You’ll have to give your kitty the dose your vet prescribes for the full course of treatment, as recommended by your vet.

What are the symptoms of an upper respiratory infection in cats?

Other, less specific symptoms of an upper respiratory infection include anorexia, lethargy, fever, enlarged lymph nodes and blepharospasm (squinting). In severe cases, the cat may have difficulty breathing. Most cases of URI in cats last seven to ten days. How does a cat get an upper respiratory infection?

Is it possible to prevent upper respiratory infection in cats?

Since upper respiratory infections can be caused by a variety of different disease agents, it is not always possible to prevent upper respiratory disease in cats. However, the standard ‘core’ vaccines that are given to cats provide protection against feline viral rhinotracheitis and feline calicivirus.

What to do if a kitten has a viral infection?

Although viral infections do not respond to antibacterial drugs, broad-spectrum antibacterial drugs may be prescribed in an effort to prevent secondary bacterial infections from complicating the disease, particularly in kittens.

What happens if a kitten has an URI?

Some kittens with URIs can become very sick, like this poor baby: In the most severe cases, upper respiratory infections can cause coughing, drooling, painful corneal ulcers on the surface of the eye, and the aforementioned ulcers in the mouth and nose. Why Are Upper Respiratory Infections In Cats So Hard To Treat?

What are the symptoms of feline respiratory disease?

Feline Respiratory Disease Complex 1 Etiology: Most acute feline upper respiratory infections are caused by FVR virus,… 2 Clinical Findings: The onset of FVR is marked by fever, frequent sneezing, conjunctivitis, rhinitis,… 3 Diagnosis: The presumptive diagnosis is based on such typical signs as sneezing, conjunctivitis,…

How long can an upper respiratory infection last in a cat?

Cats are capable of transmitting the virus from several weeks to months after exhibiting symptoms depending on the type of virus. It is best, therefore, to keep the affected cat isolated from other cats at this point. A cat with an upper respiratory infection is not a happy camper.

Can a cat with a respiratory infection go to a shelter?

Many shelters have accepted cats with respiratory infections as an “endemic” problem that is a “fact of life” in shelters. In many cases, the number of affected cats and the severity of disease have caused temporary closure and depopulation to achieve a clean slate for starting over.

What happens when an old cat has an infection?

Infections can become more frequent, and your cat’s recovery may only be partial during its last stages. Antibiotic resistance and secondary infections are quite common and can inhibit recovery. Impaired recovery may also lead to future health problems and a further compromised system.

What kind of disease does an old cat have?

Feline chronic renal failure (CRF) is another common disease in aging cats. The Feline CRF Information Center specifies this disease is progressive and terminal but partly manageable in the early stages.

It’s used in the treatment of cats with infections caused by bacteria, such as wounds (like animal bites), bladder infections, tooth abscesses, eye or ear infections, skin infections and respiratory infections.

Why are older cats more susceptible to infections?

Chronic diseases often associated with aging can impair immune function even further. Dehydration, a consequence of many diseases common to older cats, further diminishes blood circulation and immunity. The skin of an older cat is thinner and less elastic, has reduced blood circulation, and is more prone to infection.

What are the signs of an older cat with kidney disease?

This produces clinical signs of kidney disease that include weight loss, decreased appetite, vomiting, and lethargy as the kidney disease progresses. Some cats with kidney disease will also have increased thirst and urination.This is most common in older cats, but can occur at any age.

What causes a cat to die from kidney failure?

Chronic Kidney Disease. Chronic renal failure (CRF) is a very common problem in cats. When the kidneys fail, they are no longer able to remove waste products that lead to the build-up of toxins in the blood.

Can I give my Cat Albon for respiratory infection?

ALBON (sulfadimethoxine) is effective for treating a wide range of bacterial infections commonly encountered in dogs and cats. It is indicated for use in dogs and cats with respiratory, genitourinary tract and soft-tissue infections. It is also indicated for treating dogs with bacterial enteritis associated with coccidiosis.

How long does an upper respiratory infection last in a cat?

About half of the cats infected with FVC will remain infected as carriers, sometimes for a few months after symptoms cease, and, in rare cases, for life. Sniffling, sneezing, clear to pus-like discharge from the eyes and/or nose, coughing and lethargy are common symptoms of an upper respiratory infection in cats.

Why does my kitten breathe so fast all the time?

If the kitten is experiencing loss of appetite and appears to be lethargic, take him to the vet for proper assessment. It is quite rare to develop upper respiratory infection for kittens but they can also suffer from physical obstruction in the airway making them breathe fast.

Can a cat get Uri in a shelter?

The risk for acquiring respiratory infections also increases with every day of residence in the shelter. One. Feline Respiratory Infections in Animal Shelters Revised July 2018 3 study showed that the probability of URI in cats was 80% by the second week in the shelter.

Why are respiratory infections so common in shelters?

Contagious respiratory infections are the most common cause of illness in cats in shelters and the most difficult to prevent or manage. These infections represent a significant and frequent drain on shelter resources, including treatment costs, staff time, and staff morale.

What should I do if my foster cat is sick?

Any room with a latching door will work fine. Keep them separated from other pets in your house. Many foster cats and kittens are at least a little bit sick. Often, kittens will come to your home with the cat form of pink eye, or some tummy troubles, or an upper respiratory infection.

What causes respiratory infections in cats in shelters?

While any of these pathogens can cause a primary infection, most cats frequently have mixed viral and bacterial co-infections. Recent studies in the U.S. and Europe have provided evidence that the viral pathogens are the more common primary cause of respiratory infections in cats in shelters.

What kind of virus does a cat have?

Most cat URIs are caused by infection with one or both of the cat flu viruses: Feline herpes virus (FHV or FHV-1, formerly known as feline rhinotracheitis virus) These two viruses are thought to be responsible for more than 90% of URIs in cats. Other important organisms that may be involved in some cases include:

How long is a cat infectious after getting the virus?

How long is a cat infectious after getting the virus? Once a cat is infected with FVR, they will usually show disease symptoms in 2-5 days (incubation period of the disease). The cat can infect other cats during this incubation period. In most cases, once symptoms appear the active infection will last about 10-20 days.

Why is my senior cat breathing heavily while lying down?

Heavy breathing in senior cats is not always a medical emergency. It may just be that your cat has overexerted itself. It can be an inevitable part of the aging process as its heart and body will start to function less efficiently. 1 Why is My Senior Cat Breathing Heavily While Lying Down? Why is My Senior Cat Breathing Heavily While Lying Down?

What happens to a cat in old age?

As a cat approaches old age, age-related diseases become commonplace. While some cats may die very suddenly, many age-related diseases are slow and progressive and can be managed with veterinary care over a long period of time. Eventually, the cat will move into the late stages of the disease and pass into the dying phase.

When to know if your cat is having breathing problems?

Breathing issues in cats, no matter how small they initially appear, should be addressed quickly. That’s especially true if the cat is struggling to breathe properly while sleeping or resting. This is a sign that there is a serious problem with the cat’s respiratory system that needs to be addressed.

Why does my cat not want to eat or drink?

Respiratory Diseases Respiratory problems can affect your cat’s sense of smell or ability to breathe and lead to a loss of appetite. 2 Upper respiratory diseases may clog your cat’s nose and eyes with discharge resulting in a temporary loss or restriction of sight and smell.

Here are some possible reasons why your cat is not eating. As in kittens, upper respiratory infections can cause loss of appetite in adult cats. Other nasal diseases can impact your cat’s sense of smell and appetite as well, including nasal polyps or tumors.

What causes a cat to lose its appetite?

Respiratory problems can affect your cat’s sense of smell or ability to breathe and lead to a loss of appetite. 2 Upper respiratory diseases may clog your cat’s nose and eyes with discharge resulting in a temporary loss or restriction of sight and smell.

Can a spayed or neutered cat get an URI?

It is not uncommon for a cat to come down with a URI a week after being spayed or neutered. Cats are capable of transmitting the virus from several weeks to months after exhibiting symptoms depending on the type of virus. It is best, therefore, to keep the affected cat isolated from other cats at this point.

What are the effects of neutering an older cat?

Male cats tend to roam, fight and lay down urine markings more than females, but cats of either gender can engage in these unfortunate activities. Neutering your cat young can prevent him from starting these behaviors altogether. Fixing an older cat has a 90 percent chance of reducing them, according to Mar Vista Animal Medical Center.

How long does it take for a cat to recover from a cold?

Discuss an individualized vaccine protocol for your cat with your veterinarian. In most cases, cat cold symptoms will improve within 7 to 10 days. Unless there is a complicating secondary bacterial infection, and with proper nutritional support, the prognosis for cats with colds is good.

What to do if your kitten has an URI?

A URI in a kitten is most likely cause by a virus, usually rhinotracheitis which is a herpes virus, or calici virus. Generally, depending on which virus your kitten has it may take 1 – 4 weeks to clear up. Feed him warmed up diluted canned food, let her breath some steam, you may need meds for the eye discharge.

What should I do if my kitten has an upper respiratory infection?

“If he’s eating and drinking and feeling comfortable and breathing, it can probably wait until the next day, but otherwise, an emergency visit is best,” Dr. Johnson says. Upper respiratory infections in cats are very hard to treat, he adds, especially the viral ones since there are no effective anti-viral medications.

How to take care of an orphaned kitten?

If a rescued kitten feels cold, warm it immediately, but gently. Place it on a heating pad wrapped in towels and on the lowest setting, or warm a hot water bottle to about 100 degrees (wrapped in a towel) and place it with the kitten. Many veterinarians have incubators to warm a chilled kitten.

Can a 3 week old kitten be on a heating pad?

Kittens under three weeks old can’t control their body temperature. Keep them on a heating pad, set on low, wrapped in towels (at least two layers of towels, or one towel folded over) should cover the pad.

Who is most at risk for Uri in cats?

Very young, very old and immunosuppressed cats are more likely to develop severe disease and possibly die as a result of their URI, usually due to secondary infections (such as pneumonia), lack of nutrition and dehydration. What cats are at risk of URIs? URIs are common, as the causative viruses are widespread in cat populations.

Can an older cat recover from a bacterial infection?

Older cats can recover from bacterial infections with some vet care and TLC. Older cats are sometimes more susceptible to illness than younger ones are. However, if they do get sick, the prognosis can still be good.

How long does an URI infection last in a feline?

Generally, a fever, poor appetite, and lethargy accompany the more specific symptoms of a URI. Generally an infection will last for 7–21 days. There is an incubation period, the time period from point of infection to when clinical signs become apparent, of 2–10 days.

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