Can upper respiratory infection kill a cat?
Upper respiratory infections (URI) are quite common in cats. Mortality due to common URI is very rare. Upper respiratory infections (URI) are quite common in cats. Mortality due to common URI is very rare.
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.
What to do for a feline calicivirus infection?
Feline Calicivirus: A Cat Upper Respiratory Infection. That said, if your cat has corneal ulcers secondary to any URIs, topical eye medications (e.g., terramycin, erythromycin, etc.) may be necessary. You and your veterinarian might also consider a supplement called lysine, which is often helpful with feline viral infections and is very benign.
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 a cat to recover from an infection?
Although FCV and FHV are viral infections, secondary infection with bacteria is common and can contribute to rhinitis (infection in the nose) conjunctivitis, and even lung infections. While most cats will recover from URIs, on occasions they can be life-threatening, and with severe infections the recovery may take several weeks.
When to bring your cat in for an upper 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. When Should You Bring Your Cat in for a Vet Visit?
When to follow up with a cat infection?
After being advised of the risk for infection, Mr. H agreed to follow up in three days or sooner if symptoms worsened. Signs and symptoms warranting earlier evaluation (e.g., fever, chills, increasing edema, erythema, numbness, drainage, and pain) were discussed.
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.
What should I do if my cat keeps getting infections?
If your cat keeps getting infections, it may need a chest X-ray to find out what’s going on. An X-ray can also help diagnose a fungal infection. The veterinarian will tell you what the best course of treatment is for your cat. This may include medications, isolation, rest, fluids from an IV, and nutritional support.
