My cat has a cold! What should I do?

Yes, your cat can catch a cold, too! But preventive methods, such as vaccinations, can help reduce the risk. If Kitten does become ill, however, you need to know how to recognise the symptoms to provide them with the best possible treatment.

What is Feline Viral Rhinitis (FVR)?

A cat cold, or infectious feline rhinotracheitis, is a disease that causes inflammation of the trachea and sinuses, very similar to the common cold that humans can catch. Rhinotracheitis is highly contagious and, as a result, is widespread among strays, cats in shelters and unvaccinated cats.

How is Rhinitis transmitted?

• Via the air

  : secretions (sneezing, saliva, breathing) from an infected cat.

• Via contaminated objects and surfaces

  such as food and water bowls and blankets shared with a sick cat. If you have another pet in the house, make sure you know how to spot the signs and watch out for contaminations.

• Via humans

  : if you touch an infected stray cat and come into contact with your cat at home without washing your hands, you can pass the disease on to them.

Exposed kittens may develop the disease or be asymptomatic carriers (showing no signs of the disease). However, carrier animals may develop the disease at some point due to stress or a weakened immune system. Chronic carriers will often present only mild symptoms, which they will overcome quickly and will not require veterinary care.

Did you know?

• Because it’s an airborne illness, cats can give other cats the flu even if they are on separate balconies! Therefore, indoor cats should get all their primary vaccines in order to protect themselves.
• Some infected animals remain carriers of the virus for the rest of their lives and are contagious when the disease manifests itself.

Symptoms to watch out for

The virus attacks the respiratory system and can cause these symptoms:

• Sneezing and coughing
• Nasal drip
• Eye infections
• Excessive saliva (soreness in the throat, ulcers on the tongue)
• Pneumonia i.e. an inflammation of the lungs

In the early stages, cats sneeze occasionally and have clear secretions from their nose. If Kitty is alert and continues eating well, treatment is unnecessary.

If your cat's condition deteriorates, you may notice coughing in addition to sneezing and the following signs: nasal congestion, purulent discharge from the nose and eyes, hypersalivation, ulcers in the mouth and despondency. Fever and loss of appetite may also occur. Pneumonia can occur when the infection reaches the lungs.

Taking care of your cat

• Clean the eyes and nose frequently using warm compresses to prevent nasal congestion and the accumulation of scabs around the eyes.
• Give them canned food.
  • Add a little water in order to maintain hydration.
  • Warm the food to increase palatability. Cats need their sense of smell to be stimulated to eat, and soft food is easier to swallow when they have a sore throat.
• Keep your kitty in a calm environment. Their immune system is weakened, and they need sleep to fight the virus.
• Avoid contact with other cats for at least two weeks after recovery to prevent the spreading of the infection.

When should you go to the vet?

If your cat doesn't get better quickly, stops eating, is depressed or has difficulty breathing, you should seek medical attention without delay. Supplemental treatments can help your pet fight the disease more effectively.

In case of a superinfection or a worsening of the disease, antibiotics are essential to combat opportunistic bacteria effectively. Further, anti-inflammatory medications can aid in the management of any discomfort or inflammation. If you notice any signs of the disease progressing, it is imperative to seek advice from your veterinarian immediately.

Prevention through vaccines

Basic vaccines protect your cat against some of the viruses and bacteria involved in your cat's cold. Among other things, this vaccine provides immunity against microbes affecting the respiratory system: herpes rhinotracheitis, calicivirus and chlamydia.

Kittens receive their first vaccines at six weeks, with one or two booster shots. The final vaccine is typically given between 14 and 16 weeks old, to ensure their immune system is strong. Vaccination is then carried out every year or every 3 years, depending on your vet's protocol and risks of exposure to the disease. Your veterinarian will advise you on a personalized vaccination schedule, based on your cat's lifestyle and surroundings.

Take care of your sick cat: