What are the symptoms of an upper respiratory infection in cats?
Other, less specific symptoms of an upper respiratory infection include anorexia, lethargy, fever, enlarged lymph nodes and blepharospasm (squinting). In severe cases, the cat may have difficulty breathing. Most cases of URI in cats last seven to ten days. How does a cat get an upper respiratory infection?
Can a cat have more than one respiratory infection?
There are a few other agents, including feline chlamydiosis, mycoplasma and Bordetella —and some cats may be infected with more than one respiratory infection virus. Fortunately, there are tests that can be done by your veterinarian to help narrow down the cause of the infection.
When to take your cat to the veterinary hospital?
As a rule of thumb, a sniffly kitty that is still eating, active and feeling fine can be watched for a few days. If the cat is not eating, seems listless or is congested enough that she needs to open her mouth to breathe—it is certainly time for a trip to the veterinary hospital.
When does an upper respiratory infection run its course?
As far as any over-the-counter drops or supplements are concerned, these are generally not helpful or necessary, unless specifically recommended by your veterinarian for a specific case/reason. Most upper respiratory infections run their course in about 10-14 days.
When to diagnose upper respiratory infection in cats?
In most cases, diagnosis of an upper respiratory infection is based on the characteristic clinical signs. Specific identification of the causative agent is not always necessary, but will be recommended for breeding animals or if an individual cat has an infection that is poorly responsive to treatment.
Why does my Persian cat have an upper respiratory infection?
Persians and other flat-faced breeds are more likely to get upper respiratory infections because of their facial structure. Going outside. Outdoor cats are more likely to come in contact with infected cats or with fungi that can cause infections. Take your cat to a veterinarian if you think it has an upper respiratory infection.
Can a cat get a cold if it has an upper respiratory infection?
When your cat is sniffling, sneezing, coughing, and has a runny nose, he feels terrible, and you want to help. 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.
What kind of respiratory tract does a cat have?
Stertor and Stridor in Cats. The upper respiratory tract or upper airways includes the nose, nasal passages, throat (pharynx), and windpipe (trachea). Noisy breathing is common in short-nosed, flat-faced ( brachycephalic) cat breeds, such as Persians and Himalayans. Affected short-nosed, flat-faced…
