Can cats pass respiratory infections to humans?
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. The same holds true in reverse, which means you can’t give your cat a cold either. An upper respiratory infection in cats can look a lot like the common cold in people.
Why does my kitten have an upper respiratory infection?
A virus is often causing a cat upper respiratory infection. Kittens or other cats who’ve been exposed to extra stress or have been housed in shelters or boarding facilities may catch a bug. It’s easy to recognize the symptoms of your cat’s upper respiratory infection and make good care decisions.
How long does an upper respiratory infection in a cat last?
Signs of Upper Respiratory Infections in Cats In most cats, uncomplicated URIs last about 7 to 21 days. If your cat is immunosuppressed (meaning their immune system has trouble fighting infections) or has other issues, the URI may last longer. Once a cat is exposed, the virus or bacteria incubates for 2 to 10 days, and then symptoms develop.
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 kind of infection does a feline have?
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.
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.
