Upper Respiratory Infection
Problem: Upper Respiratory Infections (URIs) are infections of a cat’s nose, throat, and sinus area caused by viruses and bacteria. URIs caused by viruses are contagious between cats and therefore should be detected and treated quickly. In multiple cat households, shelters, and boarding facilities, it is vital to quarantine a cat suffering from a URI as to not infect other cats. Exposure to the infection can either result from direct contact between cats or from exposure to litter boxes, toys, and bedding.
Feline calicivirus and feline herpesvirus account for around 90% of all cases of URI in cats. If a cat has feline herpesvirus, she will be a carrier for life, meaning she will always have the virus. While the virus lies dormant (no symptoms present), transmission of the virus is rare. Again, when symptoms are present, that’s when transmission is of high concern. For cats with the herpesvirus, stress can trigger the URI so make sure to monitor the cat closely. Other causes of URIs include fungus, Chlamydophila felis, Mycoplasma, and Bordetella bronchiseptica.
Symptoms:
Treatment: Diagnosis of a URI is done by an analysis of the cat’s clinical symptoms. If the cat has severe or chronic symptoms, the vet may order x-rays of the chest and/or skull, along with blood tests. Treatment is usually aimed at managing the symptoms. Antibiotics may be used to fight a bacterial infection, which are prescribed for 7-10 days. Eye and nasal ointments may also be used. Cleaning the cat’s eyes and nose, along with using a humidifier can help speed up recovery. In extreme cases, hospitalization may be needed to provide a cat with intravenous fluids. URIs will usually clear up in 7-10 days but cats with persistent URIs can be given antiviral medication. Again, because URIs are highly contagious, all items the infected cat has come in contact with should be thoroughly cleaned or thrown out.
Feline calicivirus and feline herpesvirus account for around 90% of all cases of URI in cats. If a cat has feline herpesvirus, she will be a carrier for life, meaning she will always have the virus. While the virus lies dormant (no symptoms present), transmission of the virus is rare. Again, when symptoms are present, that’s when transmission is of high concern. For cats with the herpesvirus, stress can trigger the URI so make sure to monitor the cat closely. Other causes of URIs include fungus, Chlamydophila felis, Mycoplasma, and Bordetella bronchiseptica.
Symptoms:
- Conjunctivitis
- Eye discharge
- Fever
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
- Congestion
- Cough
- Rapid breathing
- Drooling
- Ulcers in the nose and mouth
- Loss of appetite due to decreased sense of smell
Treatment: Diagnosis of a URI is done by an analysis of the cat’s clinical symptoms. If the cat has severe or chronic symptoms, the vet may order x-rays of the chest and/or skull, along with blood tests. Treatment is usually aimed at managing the symptoms. Antibiotics may be used to fight a bacterial infection, which are prescribed for 7-10 days. Eye and nasal ointments may also be used. Cleaning the cat’s eyes and nose, along with using a humidifier can help speed up recovery. In extreme cases, hospitalization may be needed to provide a cat with intravenous fluids. URIs will usually clear up in 7-10 days but cats with persistent URIs can be given antiviral medication. Again, because URIs are highly contagious, all items the infected cat has come in contact with should be thoroughly cleaned or thrown out.