If you have a cat, it is highly likely that they have had upper respiratory symptoms in their lifetime.
Symptoms that present are sneezing, nasal discharge and watery eyes, which can progress to serious changes, difficulty breathing, decreased appetite, change in voice and even oral or nasal ulcers.
Upper Respiratory Infection (URI)’s in cats are most commonly viral in origin, typically herpesvirus and calicivirus. These viruses are highly contagious and are spread through nasal secretions, i.e. the sneezing of an infected cat.
The virus is stable outside the body for at least 18 hours so it can be picked up by sharing the same caretaker, toys or food bowls etc. These viral infections once contracted stay with the cat throughout their life, and can manifest during times of stress. Stress weakens the immune system that keeps the virus in check the rest of the time.
URIs can also be caused by some bacterial infections or have secondary bacterial involvement, which makes the symptoms more severe.
Kittens are more susceptible as their immune systems are not fully developed and as such have more severe symptoms. Cats housed in close contact with a lot of other cats, like in shelters, rescues or outdoor cats are commonly infected. Physical characteristics, like the facial flatting of Persian cats, can also make them more susceptible.
So how do we treat them? That depends on how severely they are affected. Mild cases in adult cats often require no treatment and will resolve on their own in 7-10 days. Kittens that are congested may require medication (oral and/or eye drops) and even hospitalization as they are less equipped to fight the infection themselves.
What can you do at home to help your cat through their ‘cold’? We can’t get them to blow their noses to help clear out the discharge, however, placing your cat in the bathroom while running a hot shower, can help loosen the mucus and help them breathe easier.
Some studies have shown that probiotics can improve the immune system and help decrease recovery time for cats with mild symptoms. Another study showed a link between a particular probiotic strain decreasing cortisol levels and stress, possibly decreasing flares of stress related illnesses.
Lysine has previously been recommended for URIs as it is thought to decrease viral replication and therefore allow for quicker recovery, though there have been some conflicting results. It is well tolerated in cats, and safe for use in the short term, so it won’t hurt to give them some while symptomatic.
It is estimated that more than 60 per cent of cats are infected with or carriers of upper respiratory viruses. Likely infected as kittens, they can display symptoms periodically throughout their lives. Most of the time this is like a cold and will go away on its own. But if your cat isn’t getting better, or has a decrease in appetite, excessive nasal or eye discharge it’s time to contact your vet for help.
Dr. Courtney Andrews is a veterinarian in Sudbury, a graduate of the Royal School of Veterinary Studies and dog mom to Argyll and Einstein. Animals & Pets is made possible by our Community Leaders Program.
