Upper Respiratory Infections in Cats: Causes, Care, and Prevention

It’s common for cat owners to feel concerned when their cat starts sneezing or has watery eyes. Upper respiratory infections in cats are contagious illnesses that often affect a cat’s nose, throat, and sometimes their eyes, causing symptoms like coughing, sneezing, runny nose, and eye discharge. These infections are especially common in places where many cats live together, like shelters or catteries, but any cat can get sick, even if they live indoors all the time.

Knowing what signs to watch for and how these infections spread can help owners keep cats healthy. While most upper respiratory infections are caused by viruses or bacteria, some cases may become serious or need special care from a vet. Learning more about what causes these illnesses and how to respond will help cat owners support their pets and protect other cats at home or in the neighborhood. For more details about causes, symptoms, and prevention, read further or visit this guide to feline upper respiratory infections.

Key Takeaways

• Upper respiratory infections in cats are common and contagious.
• Recognizing symptoms early helps prevent complications.
• Proper care and prevention can protect cats from serious illness.

What Is an Upper Respiratory Infection in Cats?

An upper respiratory infection in cats is a common illness that affects the nose, throat, and sinuses. It can cause sneezing, discharge from the eyes or nose, and make cats feel very tired.

Definition and Overview

A feline upper respiratory infection (URI) is an infection in the upper part of a cat’s respiratory system, including the nose, mouth, and throat. It is usually caused by certain viruses or bacteria that target these areas. The most common viruses include feline herpesvirus and feline calicivirus. Sometimes bacteria, like Bordetella or Chlamydophila, can also play a role.

Cats with a URI may sneeze often, have a runny nose, or watery eyes. These symptoms happen because the infection causes inflammation and more mucus to be made. URIs are contagious, especially among cats in shelters, boarding facilities, or homes with multiple cats. Cats can catch a URI by being near an infected cat, sharing food bowls, or using the same bedding. In general, most upper respiratory infections in cats are due to viruses.

Common Terms and Synonyms

Upper respiratory infection in cats is often called “URI” or “cat URI.” Vets may also use “feline upper respiratory infection” or “feline URI.” These terms all mean the same illness but can sound different depending on who is talking.

Sometimes cat owners might think of a URI as a “cat cold,” because the symptoms look a lot like a human cold. You may also hear it referred to as a “respiratory illness” or “cat flu.” Although these names are not exactly the same from a medical perspective, people often use them when talking about this condition.

When searching for help online or talking to a vet, using any of these terms will point to information about this same group of illnesses. PetMD explains these interchangeable terms and highlights their use in both veterinary offices and at home.

Impact on Feline Health

URIs can make cats feel sick and uncomfortable. Typical symptoms include:

• Sneezing
• Runny nose or nasal discharge
• Watery eyes
• Sometimes fever
• Loss of appetite
• Cough

Mild cases act much like a cold and often get better in one to three weeks. Some cats, especially kittens, older cats, or those with weak immune systems, can get very sick and may need medicine or extra care. If a cat refuses to eat or drink, it can become dehydrated, which is dangerous.

Stress, crowded living situations, and poor air quality can increase the risk for infection. Cats who recover from a URI may carry the virus for life and show symptoms again later, usually if they get stressed. Upper respiratory infections can be serious in cats with other health issues or in very young kittens, and these cases should be watched closely by a veterinarian.

Causes of Feline Upper Respiratory Infections

Feline upper respiratory infections have a few main causes, including viruses and bacteria. Understanding these causes helps owners protect their cats and respond quickly if symptoms appear.

Viral Infection Sources

Viruses are the main cause of upper respiratory problems in cats. Feline herpesvirus-1 (FHV-1), also called feline viral rhinotracheitis (FVR), is at the top of the list. This virus is very contagious, spreading through sneezing, grooming, or sharing food bowls. Once infected, cats might carry the virus for life, with symptoms that can reappear during stress.

Feline calicivirus (FCV) is another common virus, known for causing mouth ulcers, sneezing, nasal discharge, and inflamed eyes. Both FVR and FCV are responsible for most of the viral infections seen in cats. These viruses move easily between cats, especially in crowded settings like shelters or catteries.

Viral infections account for about 80% to 90% of all cat upper respiratory infections. Preventive vaccines exist, but cats can still occasionally develop mild symptoms after vaccination. For more detail, see how herpesvirus and calicivirus cause most feline respiratory illnesses.

Bacterial Infection Pathways

Certain bacteria can also cause or worsen feline upper respiratory infections. Bordetella bronchiseptica and Chlamydophila felis are the two most commonly involved bacteria. These pathogens are passed through direct contact, sneezing, coughing, and even contaminated objects.

• Bordetella bronchiseptica can cause coughing, nasal discharge, and fever. It is especially risky in group-living cats.
• Chlamydophila felis usually leads to eye infections with swelling and redness, but it can also affect the nose and throat.

Bacteria like Mycoplasma may sometimes play a role, especially in multi-cat households. Bacterial upper respiratory infections are less common than viral ones but can be just as uncomfortable. Learn more about the different types of bacteria that infect cats’ airways.

Secondary Bacterial Infection Triggers

A viral infection often sets the stage for a secondary bacterial infection. When a cat’s upper airway is irritated and inflamed by viruses, harmful bacteria find it easier to invade and multiply.

Secondary infections usually occur because the immune system is weakened from fighting the initial virus. This can cause symptoms to worsen, including thick yellow or green nasal discharge, increased coughing, and fever.

Common secondary invaders include Bordetella, Mycoplasma, and sometimes Staphylococcus species. These bacteria can make recovery longer and increase the risk of complications. Getting quick veterinary care can help prevent severe secondary infections. To better understand how secondary bacteria worsen upper respiratory symptoms in cats, check the link.

How Upper Respiratory Infections Spread Among Cats

Upper respiratory infections in cats pass quickly, especially in areas where many cats live together. Some cats can carry the infection for a long time, spreading it to other cats even after they seem healthy.

Transmission Methods

Upper respiratory infections spread mostly through direct contact with infected cats. This includes nose-to-nose sniffing, grooming, or sharing food and water bowls.

Indirect contact also plays a role. Cats can catch infections from bedding, toys, or dishes that have touched an infected cat. Even a person’s hands or clothing can carry the germs between cats.

Most viruses and bacteria, such as feline herpesvirus and calicivirus, spread in droplets from sneezing or coughing. These droplets can settle on surfaces or remain in the air for a short time.

It is important to clean and disinfect shared items often. Keeping sick cats away from healthy ones helps lower the risk of spreading illness.

Multi-Cat Environments

Upper respiratory infections are very common in places where many cats live close together. Examples include animal shelters, catteries, and multi-cat households.

Crowded spaces make it easy for infections to pass from one cat to another. Shared litter boxes, food bowls, and close sleeping spots help germs move quickly between animals. Stress and poor ventilation can make infections worse and may weaken cats’ immune systems.

Caregivers should keep new or sick cats in separate rooms when possible. Regular cleaning and keeping groups small also lower the spread of infection. In multi-cat environments, extra caution can make a big difference.

Carrier State and Chronic URI

Some cats become chronic carriers after an infection. These cats can still have germs, like herpesvirus, in their bodies even when they look healthy.

Chronic carriers may have mild signs like occasional sneezing, or they may show no symptoms at all. When stressed or unwell, they could spread the infection again through saliva, eye discharge, or nasal mucus. This “carrier state” makes controlling outbreaks harder, especially in larger groups of cats.

Chronic URI is a health issue where a cat has long-term symptoms, such as runny nose or watery eyes. These cats might need extra care and may be more likely to pass the infection to others. Regular vet visits and careful management can help reduce problems linked to chronic carriers.

Symptoms of Cat Upper Respiratory Infections

Cats with upper respiratory infections often show symptoms that look like a cold in humans. Spotting the signs early and knowing when symptoms are serious can help keep cats safe.

Early Signs to Watch For

The first signs are usually mild. Cats may sneeze, have a runny nose, or watery eyes. Some cats develop clear or colored eye and nasal discharge. Others start coughing or licking their nose a lot.

These cats may also become less active, hide more than usual, or eat less food. Some may even have a hoarse or lost voice. Early symptoms like these are common, especially in places where many cats live together. According to Chewy’s cat health guide, recognizing these signs early helps prevent the infection from getting worse.

Common early symptoms:

• Sneezing
• Eye or nose discharge
• Coughing
• Watery eyes
• Lack of energy
• Poor appetite

Severe Symptoms Needing Urgent Care

Not all cats have only mild symptoms. Some develop more serious problems that need quick veterinary help. Heavy difficulty breathing, nonstop coughing, or blue-tinged gums are emergencies and can be life-threatening.

Cats who stop eating or drinking, become very weak, or have thick yellow or green discharge need to see a vet. High fever, open-mouth breathing, and signs of pain are also concerning. Severe infections may lead to pneumonia or dehydration.

If a cat shows these severe symptoms, they should be taken to the veterinarian right away. More details about when to seek urgent help can be found in this detailed VCA Animal Hospitals guide.

Warning signs needing urgent care:

• Trouble breathing
• Refusing all food or water
• High fever
• Thick or colored discharge
• Extreme lethargy or weakness

Differences in Kittens, Adults, and Senior Cats

Kittens, adult cats, and senior cats show symptoms in slightly different ways. Kittens often get sicker faster and have a harder time fighting off infections. They may stop eating completely, become very tired, and risk dehydration more quickly.

Adult cats usually handle infections better, but those not vaccinated or with weak immune systems might get severe symptoms. Senior cats can also get seriously ill, especially if they have other health problems.

Pet owners should watch kittens and older cats closely if they show respiratory symptoms. For a more complete breakdown on how age can affect symptoms, visit this PetMD page.

Age Group	Common Issues	Special Risks
Kittens	Fast onset, stop eating	Dehydration, pneumonia
Adults	Milder symptoms, may recover fast	Higher risk if unvaccinated
Senior Cats	Can worsen quickly	Underlying health problems

Diagnosis and Veterinary Evaluation

Veterinarians use a combination of physical exams, special tests, and medical history to find the cause of upper respiratory infections in cats. Sometimes, underlying viruses like FIV or FeLV play a role in making the illness worse or harder to treat.

Physical Examination

A veterinarian will begin by checking the cat’s nose, eyes, and throat. Signs like sneezing, nasal discharge, eye redness, or noisy breathing help a vet spot a possible upper respiratory infection. Swollen lymph nodes and fever may also be noticed.

Listening to the cat’s chest is important. It can help tell if the infection has spread to the lungs. The vet will ask about any recent illness, vaccination status, or contact with other cats.

A hands-on exam often gives many answers right away. Cats with severe symptoms or those who don’t get better might need further tests. This step is especially helpful for kittens and unvaccinated cats, as they are at higher risk for problems related to feline herpesvirus or calicivirus (see more about respiratory infections in cats).

Diagnostic Testing and X-Rays

If the physical exam alone cannot confirm the illness or if the symptoms last longer than expected, more testing is needed. Common diagnostic steps include swabbing the nose or throat to look for bacteria or viruses in a lab.

Blood tests can check the cat’s overall health and screen for underlying diseases. X-rays are often used if there is concern about pneumonia or changes inside the nasal passages. These images help vets see if there is fluid in the lungs, tumors, or persistent infections in the sinuses.

Sometimes, vets will use advanced tests to find less common causes. The results guide the treatment plan and reveal how serious the infection might be. Noninvasive tests and a complete physical exam are often enough for cats with mild or new symptoms, as noted in this article on feline respiratory diseases.

Role of Underlying Conditions

Certain viral infections such as FIV and FeLV can weaken a cat’s immune system. Cats with these viruses are more likely to develop chronic or severe upper respiratory infections. Testing for FIV and FeLV helps vets plan long-term care and avoid complications.

Chronic health problems, dental disease, and stress may also trigger or worsen symptoms. Adult cats with other illnesses may need longer treatment and more monitoring. In shelters or homes with multiple cats, knowing if any cat has FIV or FeLV is important.

By looking for these underlying issues, veterinarians help ensure each cat gets care that fits its specific situation. This is key when treating cases that come back often or do not improve with standard care, as discussed in the feline upper respiratory infection guidelines.

Treatment Options for Upper Respiratory Infections

Most cats with upper respiratory infections will get better at home with the right care, but medicines like antibiotics and antivirals are sometimes needed. Rarely, surgery is required for cases with severe complications.

Home Care and Supportive Treatments

Home care helps keep most cats comfortable and can lead to a quicker recovery. Fresh water and soft, tasty foods encourage cats to eat and drink, which is important if they feel unwell. Using a humidifier or placing a cat in a steamy bathroom can ease breathing and thin mucus.

Gently wipe away nasal or eye discharge using a soft, damp cloth. A quiet resting space away from other pets helps reduce stress and gives cats time to heal. Keeping the litter box clean and nearby makes it easier for sick cats to use it. Limiting visitors and loud noises also helps.

Offer food several times a day, and try warming up wet cat food to make it smell stronger. If a cat isn’t eating for more than a day, it should see a vet. Keeping up with regular cleaning, washing bowls, and disinfecting shared spaces can prevent the infection from spreading to other cats in the home. For more supportive tips, visit this comprehensive feline respiratory care guide.

Antibiotics and Antiviral Medications

Some cats need medicine to fight infection. Antibiotics, like doxycycline or amoxicillin, treat bacterial causes or secondary bacterial infections that often happen with viruses. These are only given when a vet thinks bacteria are involved because viruses do not respond to antibiotics.

Antiviral medications like famciclovir may help if the infection is due to feline herpesvirus. They do not cure the virus but can reduce symptoms, especially in cats who get sick repeatedly. All medicines should be given for the full course, even if the cat seems better early.

Common side effects include upset stomach or less appetite. If these happen or the cat has trouble breathing or gets worse, follow up with the vet. For more details on prescription medicine, check effective medication options for cats’ respiratory infection.

When Surgery Is Needed

Surgery for upper respiratory infections is uncommon and only an option when serious complications arise. Surgery may be needed if a cat develops severe, repeated sinus blockages, abscesses, or polyps that do not go away with medicine.

In these rare cases, the vet might remove blockages or correct structural problems in the nose or throat. Cats with chronic trouble breathing due to scarring might also need a surgical procedure. Surgery always comes after other treatments fail and the risks and benefits are carefully reviewed with the vet.

Recovery from surgery involves rest, pain management, and sometimes antibiotics to prevent new infections. Most cats never require this, but it can be life-changing for those who do.

Prevention Strategies and Long-Term Management

Preventing upper respiratory infections in cats focuses on regular health care, reducing stress, and careful management for cats who often get sick or have chronic issues. Small changes in daily routines and the cat’s environment can make a big difference in lowering the risk of infections.

Vaccination and Routine Health Care

Vaccination protects cats against common viruses like feline herpesvirus (FHV-1) and calicivirus (FCV), which are key causes of upper respiratory infections. The American Association of Feline Practitioners recommends that all healthy kittens and adult cats without a known vaccine history get vaccines containing FHV-1, FCV, and feline panleukopenia virus (FVRCP). For more on what these vaccines contain, see this update on feline upper respiratory disease prevention.

Regular checkups let vets catch early signs of infection and help keep vaccinations up to date. Annual exams also help find dental problems or other health issues that could weaken a cat’s immune system.

Key points:

• Make sure all cats, especially those in shelters, multi-cat homes, or catteries, stay current with their vaccines.
• Keep new or sick cats separated until they have been checked by a vet.

Reducing Stress and Environmental Control

Stress can make cats more likely to get sick or make symptoms worse. Owners should provide quiet, safe spaces for cats, especially if there are many pets in the house.

Easy changes to reduce stress include:

• Giving cats hiding places or perches.
• Sticking to a daily routine for feeding and play.
• Using calming sprays or diffusers with pheromones.

Good air flow, regular cleaning, and keeping food and water bowls clean may help control the spread of viruses and bacteria. If possible, avoid overcrowding and keep the environment calm.

Managing Chronic and Recurrent Cases

Some cats get upper respiratory infections over and over again. Chronic cases might need a mix of long-term medications, such as antiviral drugs, and daily care.

It’s helpful to keep a health diary to record symptoms, treatments, and changes. Regular vet visits are important to adjust care as needed. Sometimes special nutrition or supplements can help support the immune system.

In homes with more than one cat, separating animals when one is sick and washing hands before and after handling each cat is smart. Cats with ongoing symptoms should always be seen by a veterinarian for tailored advice and management plans. More tips are available at vetverified.com’s guide to upper respiratory infections in cats.

Frequently Asked Questions

Upper respiratory infections in cats can cause sneezing, eye or nose discharge, and loss of appetite. Knowing when to seek help and the right ways to care for a sick cat can make a real difference.

What are the typical signs that my cat might have an upper respiratory infection?

Cats with upper respiratory infections often sneeze, cough, or have a runny nose and eyes. Some cats will squint, have red or swollen eyes, or develop mouth ulcers. Many cats seem tired, have a hoarse voice, or stop eating for a while. More details on these signs can be found at Cats.com.

Which antibiotics are commonly recommended for treating a cat’s upper respiratory infection?

Vets may prescribe antibiotics if bacteria are causing the infection. Common choices include doxycycline or amoxicillin. Not all cases need antibiotics, especially if a virus caused the infection. A veterinarian should always make the final decision about medicine for a cat. Learn more about treatment at Cats.com.

How long does it typically take for a cat to recover from an upper respiratory infection?

Most cats with mild cases get better in about 7 to 14 days if they receive the right care. Some infections, especially those from herpesvirus, can last longer or come back later in life. Prompt treatment helps cats recover faster. For more on recovery times, visit The Pet Vet.

Can upper respiratory infections in cats be fatal, and how can I prevent it?

Upper respiratory infections can be dangerous if a cat stops eating or drinking, or develops pneumonia. Kittens and weak cats are most at risk. Vaccines help prevent common causes of these infections, and keeping sick cats apart from others reduces spread. Cleaning food bowls, litter boxes, and bedding also helps stop infection. Read details at Cats.com.

Are there any effective home remedies for managing my cat’s upper respiratory symptoms?

Most home remedies provide comfort, such as using a humidifier or gently wiping away discharge. However, home care cannot replace proper medical treatment if a cat is very sick. It is best to contact a veterinarian before trying any treatments at home.

What are the usual ways that cats contract upper respiratory infections?

Cats catch these infections by being close to other infected cats or their belongings, like bowls and bedding. Animal shelters, catteries, and areas with many cats increase the risk. Outdoor cats may be exposed from other animals or the environment. Details on how these infections spread are at Cats.com.