Colds in Cats: Symptoms and Treatment

Any warm-blooded animal can catch a cold or become ill. Almost all domestic animals are susceptible to colds: dogs, cats, rodents, and birds. However, recognizing the illness in a timely manner isn't always possible. A simple illness can progress to complications. And instead of a simple runny nose and sneezing, your pet may need to be treated for bronchitis or pneumonia. How do colds manifest in cats, and why do they develop?

Why might a cat catch a cold?

• The most common cause is hypothermia. It's not necessary for the pet to be in a draft (although this is often what causes it). runny nose (and tearing in the animal). A cat may be exposed to low temperatures after active play, or after being in a warm room, or after a bath (even a drop of a few degrees can be a contributing factor to the development of a cold in a cat).
• Swimming in cold water won't go unnoticed either. Be prepared for the animal to start swimming any day now. will start sneezingThe same applies to keeping your pet outside during inclement weather: rain, snow, strong cold wind, frost.

• Don't forget about your cat's immune system. The weaker it is, the faster it gets sick. Therefore, it's crucial to remember mandatory anti-epidemic measures, a well-balanced diet, and regular veterinary visits (checkups to ensure your cat is completely healthy).
• An exhausted and weakened animal will catch a cold much faster than its well-fed counterpart.
• The density of the coat also plays a significant role. You'll agree that Sphynx cats, for example, are more susceptible to colds because their skin isn't protected by fur.

Cold symptoms in cats

The main symptoms of a cold in a cat are a runny nose, sneezing, watery eyes, coughing, and slight increase in body temperature, lethargy, loss of appetite.

However, such clinical signs are also characteristic of other diseases. Many infectious diseases can begin in a similar way. It can easily be confused with rhinotracheitis, panleukopenia, calicivirus, and pneumonia. mycoplasmosis, infectious peritonitis, and other "infections." Treatment for these "infections" is completely different, as they are life-threatening. Therefore, don't dismiss your pet's illness as a cold. It's a good idea to visit your veterinarian to make sure nothing more serious is developing.

Moreover, even a cold in cats requires treatment even at home, as there is a high risk of complications developing. Pets, just like humans, can develop bronchitis, tracheitis, pharyngitis, pneumoniaAnd treatment for these illnesses will be much more serious and complex than for a simple cold. A secondary infection (bacterial or viral) is also possible, as the immune system is weakened and unable to fight pathogens fully.

Treating a cat with a cold

Treatment for a cold in a cat should only be prescribed by a veterinarian, since many human medications are dangerous to the health and life of the animal.

But the basic principles are the same as for humans:

1. Rest, get more sleep. Cats are already notorious sleepers, so all you need to do is provide a warm and cozy sleeping place, protected from drafts and cold.
2. Warmth. Also, don't let a cat with a cold lie on a cold floor (tile, linoleum, or anything that might be exposed to a cold draft). You can place a heating pad nearby, cover it with a blanket, and pet it (if it allows, rub its limbs to increase blood flow). Give plenty of warm food. Of course, a cat won't drink warm water. Pets generally shouldn't drink milk (only fermented milk products, which can't be heated). Therefore, make sure both food and drink are at least room temperature. Food should be easily digestible but meet all the criteria.
3. Strengthening the immune system. Vitamins and minerals are essential to help the immune system get stronger faster.
4. Wipe your eyes and nose (especially if there is discharge from them) with a clean swab soaked in warm boiled water.
5. If you're wondering how to treat a cat's cold, remember that medications should only be prescribed by a veterinarian after an in-person examination. In most cases, treatment doesn't require any medication; improving living conditions and feeding is sufficient.

Don't worry, colds from cats don't spread to humans. However, if the animal's illness is caused by an infectious disease, there is a risk of infection (there are many zoonotic diseases). However, humans shouldn't be afraid of the cold itself.

Preventing colds in cats

Preventing colds is not that difficult.

• Do not allow your pet to become hypothermic; protect it from wind and drafts.
• Do not allow lying on the cold floor.

• Don't let your cat out for a walk after bathing with wet fur (even around the house). Dry the fur thoroughly (and wrap the cat in the same towel).
• Ensure a well-balanced diet. Add more vitamins and minerals to your diet.
• Don't neglect anti-epidemic measures. Deworm your pet at least once every three months. Also, keep up with your vaccinations.

How to Distinguish a Cold from an Upper Respiratory Tract Infection (Hidden Causes)
A runny nose and sneezing are nonspecific. More serious pathogens that produce a similar picture include:
• feline herpesvirus (FHV-1) – often causes ulcerative keratitis, crusts on the nose/eyes, relapses during stress;
• Calicivirus (FCV) - most often causes mouth ulcers, lameness and fever;
• Bordetella bronchiseptica and Chlamydophila felis are bacteria that are more likely to escape when kept in crowded conditions;
• secondary bacterial infection - worsens the condition 3-5 days after onset.

If symptoms are not limited to sneezing and a runny nose (trouble breathing, cramps, loss of appetite, extreme lethargy, or green discharge from the eyes), it is likely not a "cold," but a bacterial or viral infection that requires diagnosis and treatment.

What tests are performed in a veterinary clinic to help determine the cause?

The clinic usually recommends a combination of tests:

• swab-culture from the nose/throat and PCR diagnostics (identification of FHV-1, FCV, Bordetella, etc.);
• cytology of secretions (assesses the presence of bacteria and inflammatory cells);
• general clinical blood test (assessment of the leukocyte formula, signs of systemic inflammation);
• chest x-ray - if pneumonia is suspected;
• ophthalmoscopy and fluorescein test - for problems with the cornea;
• in chronic processes - endoscopy/CT of the nasal passages and biopsy (to exclude polyps, chronic rhinosinusitis).

Without these tests, treatment may only be symptomatic and will not eliminate the cause.

Support and Treatment Plan - What's being done in the clinic and what can be done safely at home

The veterinary approach is based on the "diagnosis - pathogen-specific treatment - support" algorithm. The clinic may prescribe antiviral medications (for confirmed herpes), antibiotics for bacterial superinfections, local washes and drops (as indicated), fluid therapy for dehydration, and oxygen for dyspnea. Below is a list of measures that can be safely started at home before the visit (but without self-administering antibiotics):

• Air humidity: install a humidifier or steam chamber (not directly above the cat) - this helps to thin the secretion;
• "warm, quiet corner": reduce stress and save energy;
• enhanced nutrition: high-calorie, easily digestible food, heated - the smell and warmth stimulate the appetite;
• inhalation with saline solution (not medicinal) - 5-10 minutes in a closed room 1-2 times a day;
• wiping closed eyes and nasal passages with a warm, damp cloth;
• Monitor your body temperature - if it is high (>39.5°C), you should see a doctor immediately.

Important: Do not give antibiotics, drops, or antiviral medications without a veterinarian's prescription. The wrong medication or dosage will worsen the situation.

Prevention of relapses and strengthening the immune system

Some cats become "crowning" respiratory infections (frequent recurrences). What helps reduce the number of episodes:

• vaccination according to schedule (vaccines against FHV-1 and FCV reduce the frequency and severity of outbreaks);
• stress reduction: when moving, visiting a groomer, or getting a new pet, allow time for adaptation;
• nutritional quality: protein, omega-3, microelements support immunity;
• regular sanitation of the home and care of the litter tray/bedding;
• Be careful when in contact with street cats and at exhibitions.

Special risk groups and what they need to know

• kittens: often have a hard time, quickly lose warmth and appetite - require immediate help;
• elderly and chronically ill cats: immunity is weakened, the risk of pneumonia and complications is higher;
• subtle/chronic nasal symptoms: may conceal polyps, dental problems or foreign bodies – further diagnostics required.

Table - When to contact a veterinarian immediately

Any questions? Our veterinarian will answer them as quickly as possible in the comments below.

Read also:

• Calicivirus in cats
• Feline infectious peritonitis
• Rhinotracheitis in cats