Is it common for cats to get upper respiratory infections?
We consider upper respiratory infections in cats to be very contagious, and it is not uncommon for a normal-looking kitten to be adopted from a shelter, only to start sneezing within a few days, followed shortly by all of the other cats in the house.
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.
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.
What happens if a cat has an URI infection?
Viral infections are not cured by antibiotics, so as with the common cold, there is no completely effective treatment besides time and allowing the cat’s own immune system to do its job. In rare cases, URI can cause serious disease such as pneumonia. Also, sick cats may not eat or drink enough thus becoming severely dehydrated.
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.
Why do my kittens sneeze and have watery eyes?
The most common cause of sneezing and watery eyes in felines is an allergic reaction, which can be due to a number of irritants that are present in the environment.
Why is my cat sneezing a lot?
Causes of Sneezing. If your cat is sneezing a lot, your veterinarian may initially suspect a cause based on a review of your cat’s symptoms. One of the main causes of sneezing is infection. In some cases, the vet may take a swab from the mouth, throat, eyes, or nose and send it to a lab to confirm an infection.
Is Kitten vomiting likely an emergency?
If a kitten vomits once or twice, but is otherwise acting normally, it is not an emergency . If vomiting is proceeded by retching and the vomit contains hair, then it is a hairball that can be ignored.
