Upper Respiratory Infection
What is an Upper Respiratory Infection (URI)? Cats commonly suffer from colds just like people do. Your cat may sneeze frequently, have a runny nose (the sniffles) or runny eyes and have noisy breathing. He may lose his appetite or seem lethargic and tired. The stress of being kenneled or going to a new home can lower the immune system and make them more apt to develop colds.
How is URI treated? There is no cure for URI, just as there is no cure for the common cold. However, if your cat shows any URI symptoms, call your veterinarian. He may prescribe an antibiotic, which will prevent your cat from developing a more serious infection. If treated at the onset of the illness, he should recover quickly. If left untreated, your cat may become sick enough to require hospitalization.
How do I care for my cat while he has a URI? Keep your cat extra warm if the weather is cold. A room temperature of 70 degrees is ideal. Give him a hot water bottle to snuggle up to. Run a vaporizer to aid his breathing if necessary.
Since your cat's sense of smell is affected, he may not eat well. Tempt him with all-meat baby food or "smelly" foods, like sardines or tuna fish.
Is a URI contagious? Other cats (but not dogs or people) can catch this cold. If you have another cat, we suggest that when you bring your new cat home, you isolate him in a separate room for at least a few days. This will help with adjustment for both cats, but it will also allow you to see if he develops any URI symptoms. If your other cat does happen to get URI, of course it can also be easily treated.
Any other hints? Make sure your other pets are up to date on shots BEFORE you bring a new pet home. Feed high quality food available from a pet supply store? Call your veterinarian if you notice any symptoms of URI.
If you have any question or concerns, please call our office at 978-745-9888.