Cat Respiratory Infections: Quick Guide

Upper Respiratory Infections (URI)

Feline URIs are common, especially in multi-cat households and shelters. Feline herpesvirus-1 (FHV-1) and calicivirus cause 90% of cases.

Common Symptoms

Sneezing, nasal discharge, eye discharge, conjunctivitis, fever, loss of appetite, and mouth ulcers (especially with calicivirus). Most infections last 7-10 days.

When to See a Vet

Seek veterinary care if symptoms persist beyond 10 days, your cat stops eating for more than 24 hours, has difficulty breathing, or shows signs of dehydration.

Treatment

Most viral URIs are self-limiting. Supportive care includes keeping the nose and eyes clean, offering warmed aromatic food, and using a humidifier. Antibiotics may be prescribed for secondary bacterial infections.

Prevention

FVRCP vaccination reduces severity but does not prevent infection entirely. Reduce stress, maintain good ventilation, and isolate sick cats from healthy ones.