What are the symptoms of upper respiratory infection in cats?

In the vast majority of cases, disease results from infection with feline calicivirus (FCV) or feline herpes virus (FHV, or FHV-1). Clinical signs include sneezing, nasal discharge, conjunctivitis (inflammation of the lining of the eyes), ocular discharge, loss of appetite, fever and depression.

Can a cat get upper respiratory disease from lysine?

Several studies suggest that lysine supplementation is not effective and may actually worsen symptoms and promote shedding of the virus. Once infected, cats carry the infection for life and may experience recurring bouts of upper respiratory and eye disease.

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.

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,…

What causes a feline upper respiratory infection ( URI )?

Feline Upper Respiratory Infection. What causes a feline upper respiratory infection? Feline upper respiratory infection (URI) is the common term for a respiratory infection caused by one or more viral or bacterial agents. Synonyms for this condition include feline infectious respiratory disease and feline upper respiratory disease complex (URD).

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.

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 should I do if my cat has upper respiratory disease?

Properly isolate infected cats to protect other pets living in the same environment. Minimize stress. Keep your cat up to date on vaccines as recommended by your vet. Vaccines for upper respiratory disease in cats may not actually prevent infection, but they help lessen the severity of the disease in some cases.

The symptoms of a feline upper respiratory infection resemble those of a human cold or flu, including coughing, sneezing, eye inflammation, lethargy, and more. Cats with upper respiratory infections may have one or more of the following clinical signs:

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.

How can I protect my cat from upper respiratory infection?

But, as is the case with children, vaccination can protect your cat from the most common causes of and upper respiratory infection: FVR and FVC. Disinfection is another highly effective way of minimizing environmental exposure.

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.

What are signs of upper respiratory infection in cats?

Signs of Upper Respiratory Tract Infection in Cats. Since a respiratory infection involves nose, eyes, mouth, and sinus of a kitty, some common symptoms include. Nasal stuffiness. Runny nose. Eye discharge. Lethargy. Watery eyes. Sneezing.

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 is the treatment for upper respiratory infection in cats?

Treating Upper Respiratory Infection in Cats. 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.

Symptoms of feline upper respiratory infections. 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 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.

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.

Why does my cat have a breathing problem?

Neck and head are held low and out in front of the body (extended) Problem may occur when breathing in (inspiratory dyspnea) Problem may occur when breathing out (expiratory dyspnea) Other symptoms, depending on the cause of the breathing problem Fluid in the lungs because of heart failure ( pulmonary edema)

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

What should I do if my cat has a respiratory infection?

Nasal decongestants may be helpful in some cases. It is important to note that the stress of giving medications may worsen bouts of keratitis and conjunctivitis that may otherwise subside on their own. In acute cases of infection in young cats, antiviral drugs may help treat lesions on the cornea and upper respiratory signs.

What to do if your cat has nasal discharge?

If the discharge from your cat’s eyes is no longer clear and becomes yellow, green or thick, talk to your vet as additional treatment will be needed. Clean your cat’s nose with a warm, wet paper towel. Be gentle cleaning up the nasal discharge as her nose will be sore.

What kind of infections can a cat get?

Chlamydophila felis and Bordetella are bacteria that can cause primary respiratory infections in cats. A group of organisms called Mycoplasma can cause primary respiratory and eye infections, or play a secondary role, along with bacteria such as Pasteurella, Streptococci, Staphylococci, and many others.

Can a cat be contagious with an upper respiratory infection?

Luckily, you can. The good news is some cat upper respiratory infections go away on their own, just like humans’ bouts with the common cold. But some conditions can be contagious to other cats. It’s important to know the signs that call for a visit to your veterinarian. A virus is often causing a cat upper respiratory infection.

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.

Can a kitten get an 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.

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.

When does an upper respiratory infection run its course?

As far as any over-the-counter drops or supplements are concerned, these are generally not helpful or necessary, unless specifically recommended by your veterinarian for a specific case/reason. Most upper respiratory infections run their course in about 10-14 days.

When to diagnose upper respiratory infection in cats?

In most cases, diagnosis of an upper respiratory infection is based on the characteristic clinical signs. Specific identification of the causative agent is not always necessary, but will be recommended for breeding animals or if an individual cat has an infection that is poorly responsive to treatment.

Why does my Persian cat have an upper respiratory infection?

Persians and other flat-faced breeds are more likely to get upper respiratory infections because of their facial structure. Going outside. Outdoor cats are more likely to come in contact with infected cats or with fungi that can cause infections. Take your cat to a veterinarian if you think it has an upper respiratory infection.

What causes chronic upper respiratory tract disease VCA Animal Hospital?

In this condition a viral infection (e.g., caused by feline herpesvirus or feline calicivirus) causes the initial mucosal damage but the chronic signs relate to secondary bacterial infection of the damaged nasal passages.

What are the symptoms of dyspnea in cats?

Difficulty Breathing (dyspnea) The belly and chest move when breathing. Nostrils may flare open when breathing. Breathing with an open mouth. Breathing with the elbows sticking out from the body. Neck and head are held low and out in front of the body (extended)

What does it mean when a cat has difficulty breathing?

Difficulty Breathing (dyspnea) The belly and chest move when breathing Nostrils may flare open when breathing Breathing with an open mouth Breathing with the elbows sticking out from the body Neck and head are held low and out in front of the body (extended) Problem may occur when breathing in (inspiratory dyspnea)

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.

How can you tell if your cat has a cold?

Sneezing, runny nose, runny eyes, lack of appetite, fever – most humans know these symptoms only too well. If you see them in your cat, chances are, your cat has contracted an upper respiratory infection very similar to a cold.

Why does my cat not want to eat or drink?

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.

Can a cat with an upper respiratory infection die?

In severe cases, the cat will stop eating and may have difficulty breathing. Like human colds, URIs are not generally considered life-threatening. That said, young kittens, cats with health challenges, elderly cats, cats who develop secondary infections or cats who stop eating may die.

What causes upper respiratory infections ( URIs ) in cats?

What Causes Upper Respiratory Infections in Cats? By far, viruses are the most common causes of upper respiratory infections (URIs) in cats. Feline calicivirus and feline herpesvirus account for 80 to 90 percent of all contagious upper respiratory problems, and are prevalent in shelters, catteries and multi-cat households.

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.

What causes an upper respiratory infection in cats?

As is the case with humans, the culprits to blame for these nasty colds are bacteria or viruses, sometimes both. The bacteria and viruses that most commonly cause upper respiratory infections (URIs) in cats are: Feline herpesvirus type-1 (FHV-1); also known as feline viral rhinotracheitis (FVR) Feline calicivirus (FVC)

Which is responsible for 90% of URIs in cats?

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:

Feline viral rhinotracheitis, caused by feline herpesvirus (FHV), is an upper respiratory tract infection that can be associated with secondary bacterial infections. After FHV infection, most cats become lifelong carriers of the virus.

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 causes the majority of URIs in cats?

Most cat URIs are caused by infection with one or both of the cat flu viruses: These two viruses are thought to be responsible for more than 90% of URIs in cats ( upper respiratory infections (URIs) – cat flu ). Other important organisms that may be involved in some cases include:

What happens when a cat has a FHV infection?

FHV infection tends to be more severe, often causing more marked conjunctivitis (eye infection and ocular discharge), and some ulceration of the cornea (the clear part at the front of the eye). FHV may also cause: severe pharyngitis leading to anorexia; inflammation in the trachea; and coughing.

Why are cats more likely to get Uri?

Veterinarians have found that stress plays a role in causing outbreaks of URI, and cats in any shelter, cattery or boarding facility are generally experiencing high levels of stress. Cats who have recovered from URI can become carriers, and may experience recurrences when stressed.

Why does my cat have a runny nose and is sneezing?

This presents inflammation of the mucus membranes and discharge as well as respiratory distress, fever, apathy, loss of appetite, coughing and watery eyes. If your ct is a runny nose and is also breathing badly, then this may be the cause.

What does sneezing and eye discharge in cats mean?

Sneezing and eye discharge in cats are the most common characteristics of ‘Feline Upper Respiratory Disease Complex’. This is the term used to describe a condition affecting the mouth, nasal passages, sinuses, upper airway, and sometimes the eyes in cats and kittens.

What are the symptoms of an upper respiratory infection in a cat?

Symptoms differ depending on the cause and location of the infection, but some common clinical signs of upper respiratory problems in cats include: Sneezing. Congestion. Runny nose. Cough. Clear to colored nasal discharge. Gagging, drooling.

Why does my cat sneeze and have trouble breathing?

The sneezing may be accompanied with mucoid nasal discharge that can be green, clear or yellow. Some cats will also have trouble breathing, especially if their discharge is occluding their nasal passages. Cats may also have discharge from their eyes, this can be clear or mucoid.

What causes a cat to have a high fever and sneeze?

Bordetella bronchiectasis is a form of feline whooping cough. As a result, the most prominent symptom will typically be coughing. This bacterial infection also leads to sneezing though, alongside a high fever. As with all feline URIs, Bordetella bronchiectasis is managed with rest and antibiotics.

What should I do if my cat sneezes all the time?

Five minutes is good if your cat will cooperate. Doing this several times a day, as you can, will loosen some of the mucus in her head so she can sneeze it out. Antibiotics are usually recommended for URIs. If the agent causing the problem is bacteria, an antibiotic can shorten the duration of the disease.

Why is my cat sneezing blood with an upper respiratory infection?

Sneezing and excessive nasal discharge are primary symptoms of these infections. Sneezing may be persistent and severe, which can rupture blood vessels inside the cat’s nose.

How can you tell if your cat has an upper respiratory infection?

How Do You Know If Your Cat Has a Respiratory Infection? A sneezing cat or a coughing cat can signal an upper respiratory infection. Some of the other common symptoms may include a discharge from the nose or eyes, sniffling, a fever (often evident by a lack of appetite), a hoarse meow (or no voice at all) and ulcers in the mouth or on the nose.

Why does my cat keep swallowing and sneezing?

Excessive swallowing (if there is drainage into the back of the mouth and throat) “Colds” in cats are usually caused by infection with certain types of viruses. Feline herpesvirus and feline calicivirus are the most common. In some cases, secondary bacterial infections can develop, which may lead to pneumonia.

How can you tell if your cat is sneezing or breathing?

Most pet parents will first note that their cat is sneezing. The sneezing may be accompanied with mucoid nasal discharge that can be green, clear or yellow. Some cats will also have trouble breathing, especially if their discharge is occluding their nasal passages. Cats may also have discharge from their eyes, this can be clear or mucoid.

What causes a nasal infection in a cat?

Other fungal organisms can also occasionally cause nasal infections in cats including Aspergillus and other organisms. Inflammatory polyps – occasionally, multiple polyps (small inflammatory swellings/growths) arise within the nasal cavity.

What does it mean when your cat has nasal congestion?

Nasal congestion is a manifestation of nasal inflammation (medically termed rhinitis) which leads to excess mucus. The type of discharge will vary depending on the underlying cause but may be watery, mucoid (thick), purulent or bloody.

Why does my cat have a runny nose?

“Because smell is so important in appetite, many cats have poor appetite and lose weight.” A runny or stuffed-up nose (the sniffles) is the most common clinical sign in cats with chronic infections. The nasal discharge tends to be thick and often is yellow. It may also be red-tinged (fresh blood) or brown (older blood).

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?

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).

Do you need to take care of a cat with upper respiratory?

If you are able to keep your cat eating, the discharge from the eyes and nose is almost or completely clear you may not need to provide any other care.

If a cat has chronic symptoms of respiratory disease, additional diagnostic testing is warranted. This additional testing will usually include chest or skull x-rays, blood tests, and culture and sensitivity testing of abnormal discharges.

Can a cat get an upper respiratory infection?

Upper respiratory infections, otherwise known as URI, are a very common occurrence in domestic cats. What Are Upper Respiratory Infections in Cats? Cats develop upper respiratory infections from exposure to viruses and bacteria that cause sneezing, eye discharge and a whole host of other symptoms.

What kind of respiratory disease does a cat have?

A Guide to Feline Upper Respiratory Disease. Follow On: The most common illness for a domesticated cat to contract is feline upper respiratory disease. Upper respiratory disease in a cat is basically the same as a cold is for a human, in that it is a result of either a bacterial or a viral infection in the back of the mouth or throat.

What can you give a cat for upper respiratory disease?

Since most feline upper respiratory disease cases involve harmful bacteria, antibiotics in the tetracycline family, such as doxycycline, are most often given to cats to help treat the bacterial part of their upper respiratory disease.

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 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.

How to treat chronic upper respiratory tract disease in cats?

Anti-viral and immune-stimulating medications may be beneficial in some cases. In spite of our best efforts, some cases remain chronic or at least recurrent. The treatment goal in these cases is to reduce the cat’s discomfort through periodic medication and improve its quality of life. Pet food, supplements & more.

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

These upper respiratory viruses tend to persist in some cats, known as carrier cats, for weeks, months, or even years. In some, but not all, of these carriers, the chronic viral infection damages the protective mucous membranes and allows bacteria to invade the damaged tissues and causes persistent clinical signs.

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 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?

Feline herpesvirus (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 ( upper respiratory infections (URIs) – cat flu ). Other important organisms that may be involved in some cases include:

What kind of upper respiratory disease does a cat have?

Post-viral or idiopathic rhinitis – Acute upper respiratory infections with FCV or FHV are common in cats, especially young cats.

When to take your cat to the vet for an upper respiratory infection?

It’s important to bring your cat to a veterinarian if you think she may be suffering from an upper respiratory infection. A brief exam by a veterinarian will help to determine if your cat requires medication, has a fever or is dehydrated.

When does a cat have a medical emergency?

Difficulty breathing is usually a medical emergency in cats. Photography by Valery Kudryavtsev/Thinkstock. This is the most urgent emergency any individual — cat, dog or human— can face. Death occurs after three minutes without breathing, so cats with breathing difficulties are on the edge of disaster.

What’s the name of the most painful cat emergency?

While we’re on the subject of pain, this is one of the most truly painful cat emergencies: aortic thromboembolism, or ATE. ATE is a complication of heart disease in cats in which a blood clot lodges in the rear (usually) legs.

What is the incubation period for classical cat flu?

Classical cat ‘flu’ follows a short incubation period of 3–5 days and consists predominantly of upper respiratory tract disease (sneezing, rhinitis, nasal discharge, conjunctivitis, ocular discharge and oral ulceration).

Is there such a thing as Cat flu?

The answer is yes, but not the kind of flu you might be thinking of. Cat flu is the common name for feline upper respiratory infections with symptoms that are very similar to a human cold.1 It’s important to understand how to care for your cat if they develop cat flu.

When to seek help for a cat with Cat flu?

Kitty Has A Fever. Cat Flu is often accompanied by a fever. It is good to keep a rectal thermometer on hand so you are able to check the cat’s temperature. If it is higher than 101 then you should seek veterinary help. With the sinus affected a cat with cat flu cannot smell food and may stop eating.

How are kittens affected by the calicivirus?

Kittens have an increased risk of infection. Calicivirus: This highly contagious and ubiquitous virus is one of the major causes of upper respiratory infection in cats. Affected cats may experience sneezing, eye and nasal discharge, conjunctivitis, lethargy, loss of appetite, sores on the gums and soft tissues of the oral cavity, and lameness.

Can a cat have a lower respiratory infection?

Cats can develop infections of either the upper or lower respiratory tract. Feline URIs affect the nasal passages, sinuses, oral cavity, pharynx, and larynx (voice box). Feline lower respiratory infections affect the trachea, bronchi, and lungs.

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 are the symptoms of a bacterial infection in cats?

One form of bacterial infection in cats is an upper respiratory infection. It can make older cats and kittens seriously ill. Symptoms include grunting sounds or difficulty breathing, coughing, sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes and blood in mucus.

How long does a cold for a kitten last?

Usually, healthy animals recover quickly. But kittens and elderly ones can take a turn for the worse due to weak immune system. How Long does a Cat Cold Last? If there aren’t any cat cold complications, your cat should be back to her normal self after cold in 10 days.

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 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 ).

When to take your cat to the vet for breathing problems?

Cage rest may be an option if you have no other way of restricting your cat’s movement, and protecting your cat from other pets or active children is an important part of the recovery process. Once your cat is able to return home with you, it will be very important to follow your veterinarian’s instructions closely.

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 happens when a cat has a chronic cough?

If the coughing is a more chronic problem that has been present for one to two months, there may be permanent damage to the mucous membrane surfaces in the lungs such that they are not capable of healing. In these cases, respiratory infections may be prolonged and recurrent.

Why is my kitten wheezing and coughing up phlegm?

I am a foster home for feral / abandoned cats and kittens working with a small rescue organization. One of my most recent litters included a male kitten that at about 9-10 weeks of age started having respiratory symptoms of wheezing, loud breath sounds and regurgitating food along with large amounts of phlegm.

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.

Why does my cat keep sneezing and coughing?

Some common symptoms of the infections that cause “cat colds” include: Discharge from the eyes or nose (this may be watery or thick, and the color can be clear, white, yellow or green) Excessive swallowing (if there is drainage into the back of the mouth and throat) “Colds” in cats are usually caused by infection with certain types of viruses.

Do cats catch colds and sneeze?

Yes, cats can definitely develop colds, called upper respiratory infections. Sneezing is one of the symptoms, and might be accompanied by coughing, watering eyes, discharge from eyes and/or nose.

According to Cornell University, up to 20% of cats with upper respiratory symptoms have feline chlamydiosis and 3% of healthy cats carry it. Signs of Chlamydia felis infection, include: Eye discharge that is clear at first, but later contains mucus and turns a yellowish appearance. Rarely, anorexia or lethargy may appear.

How is Chlamydia felis spread to cats?

Chlamydia felis is one common bacterial infection of cats. These bacteria cannot survive outside of its host (the cat) and thus only contagious by close contact. C. felis is spread by eye secretions. It occurs most often in young cats and cats in crowded situations such as shelters and breeding catteries.

How many cats have been cured with FIP, FeLV?

Dealer Inquiries Natural treatment cured more than 20 cats coinfected with FIP, FeLV by Pilar Duenas. My first cat, Tahita. I care for a group of about 30 cats that have been dumped in my property over the past few years. In 2014, one of my cats died of a disease that would take a total of eight kittens and young cats in the next twelve months.

How is toxoplasmosis transmitted from cat to cat?

Toxoplasmosis is usually spread by eating poorly cooked food that contains cysts, exposure to infected cat feces, and from an infected mother to her baby during pregnancy. Rarely, the disease may be spread by blood transfusion. It is not otherwise spread between people. The parasite is known to reproduce sexually only in the cat family.

What causes an URI in an elderly cat?

Upper respiratory infections, sometimes called URIs or “cat flu,” are common in cats of all ages — from kittens to the elderly. In young cats, the initial cause is often simply a viral or bacterial agent. However, diagnosis of a chronic bacterial or viral URI in an older cat by no means tells…

What is the prognosis for feline respiratory disease?

Generally, the mortality is low and prognosis good except for young kittens and aged cats. The illness often is prolonged, and weight loss may be marked. FVR often is complicated by secondary bacterial infections; abortions and generalized infections also have been associated with disease.

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

How long does a typical upper respiratory infection last? Once a cat is exposed to an infectious agent, it will go through an incubation period of 2-10 days before developing symptoms.

How can I treat my cat’s upper respiratory infection?

Most cats with an uncomplicated upper respiratory infection can be treated symptomatically at home. Your veterinarian may prescribe an eye medication to be applied topically if your cat has a purulent eye discharge.

Can a cat die from an untreated upper respiratory infection?

Your friend is not correct in assuming that ALL of your cats will come down with it. It depends on how virulent the strain of this particular virus, the vaccination status of the cats in the house, and each cat’s individual immune system. Your friend is also incorrect by saying that your cats might die if the infection is untreated.

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