Can Your Cats Catch a Cold?

Can Your Cats Catch a Cold?

People constantly pass germs back and forth, so it's no surprise that the common cold is, in fact, very common. During cold and flu season, sneezes and sniffles are inevitable if you interact with co-workers, classmates, and family members. What about our feline family members?

can your cats catch a cold in DunwoodyTechnically, cats can't catch the same colds that their human owners contract. However, upper respiratory infections (URIs) are the feline versions of the cold or flu. The following viruses may cause URIs in Las Vegas cats: Chlamydia, Bordatella bronchispetica, Feline calcivirus, herpesvirus, viral rhinotracheitis, retroviruses and Myocplasma.

At All About Cats Veterinary Hospital, we treat cats for all URIs and customize treatment plans to help you manage their symptoms. However, we also administer vaccinations for preventable feline diseases that cause cold-like symptoms.

Symptoms of Feline Respiratory Infections

Like the flu, URIs are riskier for the young and very old. Healthy adults usually recover, but some cats go on to become "silent" carriers, shedding and spreading the virus to others.  If your cat has an upper respiratory infection, you'll notice some of the following symptoms:

  • Coughing
  • Discharge from eyes or nose (clear or colored)
  • Drooling
  • Nasal or oral ulcers
  • Sniffing
  • Congestion
  • Fever
  • Sneezing
  • Fatigue

A cat with a URI may also act depressed, rub his eyes frequently, or move sluggishly. If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule a checkup.   

Prevent Your Cat from Getting Sick

Regular wellness exams are the best way to protect your cat's long-term health.  It's also important to reduce stress, because it triggers outbreaks in carrier cats.  Other preventative tips include:

  • Bring your cat to your Las Vegas veterinarian for all recommended vaccines and boosters
  • Keep your cat indoors
  • Limit exposure to other cats and animals

Get started by scheduling your cat's annual exam at All About Cats Veterinary Hospital today! 

Contact Us

We look forward to hearing from you

Location

Find us on the map

Office Hours

Our Regular Schedule

Monday:

8:00 am-6:00 pm

Tuesday:

8:00 am-6:00 pm

Wednesday:

8:00 am-6:00 pm

Thursday:

8:00 am-6:00 pm

Friday:

8:00 am-6:00 pm

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed