Pet Articles
Cats and Colds
Respiratory Infections and the common cold in cats
Cats can get upper respiratory infections or what we call the common cold or flu. However you can not pass a human cold on to your cat and vice versa. The cat ‘cold’ is a completely different cup of tea. If your cat has any of the below symptoms for more than a day or two he/she probably has an upper respiratory infection.
Upper respiratory infections are extremely contagious (infection can be passed through an airborne contagion or through casual contact) and it is very common for all cats within a household to become infected quickly. Although most of the agents that cause URI do not survive very long (from a few hours to a few weeks) in the environment, they can last a very long time in the cat’s respiratory tract in a latent or potent form. Many cats actually will carry the agent in their body for the duration of life. In such a case your cat may suffer from occasional flare-ups when stressed or when the immune system is weak. Such a cat may also pass the agent on to other cats (even if that cat isn’t actively sick). Cats can get URI’s for a variety of reasons just as people do. These reasons can range from:
- A bacteria or virus (Chlamydia, Feline Calicivirus, Feline Herpes virus also known as Feline Rhinotracheitis Virus) a majority of UTI’s are caused by a virus
- A parasitic worm infection
- An allergic reaction
Symptoms to look for:
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
- Coughing
- Wheezing
- Discharge from the nose or mouth
- Respiratory problems
- Oral ulcers
- Conjunctivitis (discharge from the eye)
Treatment:
If you suspect any sort of “cold” take your cat to the vet immediately for an examination. Although URI’s are not terribly serious, your cat can get secondary infections during this time period which could be more serious and can lead to chronic illnesses. Many cats with a cold will also have their appetites suppressed. Cats who do not eat for even just a day or two can be at risk for hepatic lipidosis, which can be a very serious illness. The bottom line is that although a cold in and of itself is not terribly serious, that left untreated, it can turn into a serious illness.
Most cases of URI are taken care of with a course of drug therapy (antibiotics, decongestants, antivirals), rest, lots of food and liquids. Humidification of the nasal passages may also help your cat, you can do this by purchasing a humidifier for the room or bringing your kitty in with you for a nice steaming in the bathroom. However, do not allow your cat to catch a ‘chill’ if you do get him/her wet.
If you do have a cat that has been on therapy for a few weeks and is still not feeling better, or if your pet has finished his/her course of medication and is still ill your vet may have him/her in for another visit to do some more tests. These may include X-rays of the skull which allow you to see the nasal cavity and frontal sinuses. This can help you determine what, if any damage the infection has done to the nasal passages. A nasal flush can also be performed to collect matter from the nasal cavity. This matter can then be analyzed to better determine what is causing your cat to be ill.
Precautionary measures:
Keep your cat indoors and away from other sick animals. Keep your pet in a clean environment which includes clean food and water bowls and a clean home. Keep your home above 70 degrees and if your cat gets wet either dry him off or make sure he stays warm while he dries off. You can also talk to your vet about yearly vaccinations to ward off such infections.
Article courtesy 21cats.org
Reproduced by permission
I have 3 cats in my household that have colds and I decided not to let any of them outside because of their colds… is there a home remedy to help your cats get over their colds… or an over the counter pet meds?
They could have infections and need veterinary medicine, not human medicine. Vet time!
I have 5 cats, all strays. 1 caught a “cold” now all of them have it, only took 2 days now all are sneezing, watery/goopy eyes, and nose. Have them on orbax and tobramycin, but its not helping. Cats are very sharing animals!! Cant seem to get them all well, and the vet wont give them their 2nd set of shots til they are healthy, its a constant battle!:(
My father’s cat just became very lethargic today and sneezing/coughing. We took him to the vet immediately and he also had a fever of almost 105. Take your cat to the vet if symptoms – they can get sicker very quickly. Our’s is on antibiotics to prevent a secondary infection, vitamins and really smelly food so he’ll eat. I guess if they can’t smell it they will not eat when sick.
Lysine is a natural supplement that can be purchased at any drug store or pharmacy! I just open the capsules and mix into their wet food! I work at an animal shelter and have brought home a chronic URI carrier and my other cats have never gotten sick or showed any symtons. My sick little guy went from having his eyes gooped shut with yellow crusty gunk to clear eyes and nose. I honestly believe that yes antibiotics are needed in some cases but in my case it created a super bug! He was transferred from shelter to shelter and they all treated him with different drugs. I took him off all drugs kept wiping his face with a warm cloth and Lysine in the wet food twice a day and have major success! I would reccommend trying some home remedies your common sense goes a long way and you know your cat best!
My cat Kissu was not acting herself last night, and was whining which sounded like she was in pain, and she was walking slowly, was sneezing and sniffling, and vomited last night as well. Now, she sneezed once and had a runny nose for a few minutes, but seems to be walking normally and everything.
Should I go and take her to the vet, or keep her inside at home?
If it we me I’d likely call my vet and ask.
Good luck!
My cat has got severe fever, he is releasing water through his nose & eyes continously. He is also releasing foam from his mouth.
Please tell me what to do?? What medicine should I give
What you need to do is take your cat to a vet for treatment.
Ive adopted a 4 month old cat from the spca, they said that there is always URI’s going around but that hes been treated. He has a little bit of a runny nose, but has a wheezing type noise sometimes when he is breathing. I am a little worried.. should I bring him to the vet or try and wait it out?
Vet time asap – sounds like a respiratory infection to me.
My cat was given blue/grey oval pills with 1141 imprinted on one side. Could help me to identify it?
I can’t but a quick call to your vet should be all it takes.
My cat has been sneezing for a few days and last night was the worst, she came and got in bed with me. All my family have been fighting of colds for a few weeks could she have caught this. should I take her to the vets?
Cats cannot catch human colds as far as i know, But she could well need her own cat antibiotics. If this were my cat, 100% she would be seeing a vet for this.
Good luck!
Thanks Marko got her booked in this morning,
All of my 4 cats (age from 11-16) have these URI symptoms at the same time. (they had fever at first but the temperatures were back to normal after vet’s treatment). the vet gives Enrofloxacin, B Comp, and Ascorbic Acid to them. i have problem feeding the medicine to 2 of them but am able to feed the other two. this is the fourth day of medication now but none of them seem to get better, in fact all of them lost their appetite now (they all ate four days ago). How long does it normally take for them to get well? should i consult another vet?
I’d call this vet and ask additional questions unless you felt you were not getting proper service. Then yes of course, seek another opinion. Good luck Marko
Last week my 5mon old newly adopted Buttons ot of no where started sneezing and his eyes teary. So this past Sat I took him to the vet and was told he has URI and his shots was incomplete (which the Humane Soceity where I got him from told me his shots were up to dated) SMH! Well it been two days my Buttons been on meds Tobramyin, and Clavamox. All my Buttons do is rest he has NOT lost his appetite at all, though his eyes are still somewhat teary and the sneezing still goes on. I brought Buttons a humidifier yesterday.My question how long before I see results and the sneezing frenzy stop.I can’t take seeing my Buttons sick. Also is it possible I can catch his cold??
You cannot catch your cat’s cold.
I would think that 2-4 days might be enough to see a difference.
If I were in your shoes, I’d simply call my vet to ask this question.
They shouldn’t charge you extra if they answer this question by phone.
Good luck.
Thank you Marko for your response!
My 14 year old cat had alot of the same symptoms…she would sneeze 15 times in a row, discharge from her nose, watery eyes and seemed congested in her nose..she was still eating normally and drinking water. I took her to the vet and was told it was likely a upper respiratory infection and they gave me liquid antibiotic to give her in a syringe, as well as L-Lysine..the vet also said I could try Apple Cider Vinegar..put a bit in her waterbowl and rub some on a cotton ball inside her ear, or rub some on the back of her head or dilute some ACV with the gravy from some wet cat food..she seemed to perk up after the antibiotics but a few weeks later the same symptoms were back..i still use the ACV and it does seem to help..sometimes she is puffing and the vet said to definitely bring her back in if she is doing that..so I am taking her back to either do another round of antibiotics or get an x-ray. Some days she is fine, playful and back to her old self but this URI does seem to linger on for awhile. There is also a remedy for cats called Bach Rescue Remedy and it is an oil you can buy to rub in their ear when they are stressed or nervous (ie. like when they have to go to the vet) and I have found that helps so much.
My 1 1/2 year old cat has been in the wars lately. It started with an abscess under his chin from a cat fight. He has lost 4 kilos and some of his hair has been falling out (although could be from our change into summer). He’s now REALLY worrying me as he isnt eating much anymore (he used to scoff down food!) and is always tired!
You SHOULD be worried because sick animals, just like sick humans – need medical care or they tend to die.
Please take your poor cat to see a vet, he is SICK.
i have a siamese cat that will not get out of my china cabinet. i tried everything he will play with but doesnt want to get out of there! what should i do?
Maybe let him stay there till morning and he’ll come out when he’s hungry…..just a thought.
make sure you lock it somehow so it doesn’t happen again. Good luck!
hi, um i have a cat that wont stop sneezing & really isnt drinking or eating what should i do. right now i am using a baby nose cleaner to clean out everything for him. is there any other remodies?
Thanks.
Yes – How about a visit to a doctor. A cat that constantly sneezes and won’t eat or drink….is ILL and needs medical care just like a human.
Please show some compassion and take your cat to a veterinarian.
Marko, you sound like a broken record… “take your cat to the vet” seems like the only advice you can give on this forum… the sad truth about URI’s is NO medication will cure them; some products can lessen symptoms; some cats will always have symptoms, while some cats have symptoms that flare up now & then, usually due to stress. If your cat has a URI & is drinking / eating / being playful, there’s not much a vet can do; on the other hand, if your cat has a URI & your cat is not feeling well (not drinking / eating / playing etc), then by all means take it to a vet & have it checked out.
Most answers on this site are by members not vets….and the problem is many people don’t want to fork out the money to go see a vet so they post here for free…..hoping for a medical cure to a problem without seeing a doctor.
I’m sorry Guy but if people just pretended that their sick pet was a sick CHILD or a sick CAR, they would take their pets in to see the appropriate professional.
Am I wrong here? Seriously?
Hello,
I got a 6 months old cat last Monday from the SPCA. They had warned me that she might show some symptoms of URI and that if that happens I should just bring her to them to check on her and treat her. The next day she started sneezing, and coughing. She was eating well and drinking too, playing a little bit. Finally, she worsened and I could hear the congestion in her nose. I took her to their vet, who prescribed doxycycline (an anitbiotic) and gave me a pill of tolfedinic acid ( a drug similar to aspirin in the mode of action). The vet also told me that she was feverish. Today she had her first dose of doxy and her pill. I have even tried the steam thing to help her congestion. But so far she is looking only worse to me! Maybe it’s too soon for the medication to start to kick .. but is there anything I should do to help her feel better meanwhile?
Thank you
Hi BiC,
I have no experience with the med’s your cat is taking, so cannot comment on them.
My cats take lysine to help alleviate the symptoms, but it takes a while to show some benefit; this can vary from cat to cat. One cat likes the powder version, while the other only wants the paste version.
The steam treatment should help loosen nasal congestion. We also got a 2 yr old cat from the SPCA in early October, and we (& SPCA) did not know he had a URI (possibly Rhinotracheitis). Within a week, our other cat started sneezing & coughing, even though she was vaccinated. (The vaccines are usually between 50 – 99% effective against URI’s.). Once they have it, they are usually carriers for life, but if your cat is healthy, it’s very rarely fatal. Monitor it’s food/water intake & overall condition, and you’ll be ok. Minimize stress (easier said than done in some households!) Good luck.
I can tell you this – that if I had enough money (and if my cats didn’t HATE being in the car), I’d take then to the vet for any little thing. But in tuis economy and with kids in college, no, I’m not able to just pop off to the vet if it’s just where they’re going to say, “well I would have cleared up on its own in a couple of days, but here’s something that will reduce the symptoms” and then come to find out I might get the same results by taking the cat into the bathroom for some steam therapy. So telling every poster to dash off to the vet even when a home remedy might help isn’t helpful.
We do the best we can for free. There is no staff vet here to answer free questions. PETLOVERS like me answer the questions or send you to the forum to ask questions for free.
Feel free to try to seek out another site that might have veterinarians working 24/7 to answer your questions for free. and if you find one, please let me know.
Good luck.
I have a stray feral cat that I have been taking care of for three years. Recently he has been coming around me more and letting me pet him, I finally caged and took him to have him neutered Sunday a week ago, when I brought him home his right eye was red, runny and it would not dialate. a week later he was lathargic, not eating, eye still pink and wheezing, breathing with his mouth open, I tried to cage him again, but that is not going to happen, ended up just stressing him out more. He still comes around me, last night I sat on our deck for 3 hours petting and talking to him. the poor thing is exhausted, cannot relax his head because of trouble breathing. I finally got him to get in his bed where he could prop his head on the rim, went right to sleep, stayed there all night. I cannot take him to the vet again (although I am getting some antibiotics), he will not come in the house to stay warm. I am at a loss as to what to do to help him now that the weather is getting colder, and everything says to keep him warm. Any suggestions
I’d advise you try posting this in our forum. People there have much more experience in these matters.
Good luck
Sorry additional note, I would gladly take him to the vet again, but remember he is wild, it was a fluke that I got him in the carrier the first time (have tried twice since Sunday to recage) my hands and arms show the blooody signs of it. I even had a Mobile vet (Healthy Wheels) come to the house today to check him, he ran under the deck and would not come out. I wish above anything that I had just left him alone and not had him neutered, I feel as if by doing that all I did was sign his death warrant.
My 1 1/2 year old cat has been sneezing, watery eyes and just generally not feeling well. No fever, eating. Using litterbox. Should I go to vet nd keep an eye on him?
Yup definitely a vet visit especially if it’s been a few days already. Might need some antibiotics is all but you need a vet to make that decision.
Good luck
To those that have tried the Lysine treatment for kitties with runny noses…what is the dosage that you’re using…I that is something I have on hand and can try in the middle of the night and on a Sunday to try and keep my vet costs down.
My female cat has had URI and I have taken her to the vet, given her antibiotics which did not seem to help at all..lysine, and her symptoms (sneezing uncontrollably, listless, congested, she seemed to struggle to breathe at times and I took her back to the vet, had tests done that found she was very low in potassium, i got a potassium paste from the vet and gave it to her by syringe and her symptoms improved a bit..i was reading up on wheatgrass for pets and decided to give it a try. I give her liquid wheatgrass (very important to dilute with water and start out with just a bit of wheatgrass) by syringe and a month later she is like a different cat.No more sneezing, congestion, her energy is back, she is playful and eating well again..she is shedding less fur and its so good to see her not miserable as she was when she was suffering the URI
I have an 8 yr old cat and 3 weeks ago we got a 3 month old kitten who had a cold – sneezing and off her food. She went to the vet and got a shot and tablets and after a week she was better. During this time i kept the kitten away (totally) from the older cat. The Vet told us that it was contagious and to take the older cat along for a shot – i have tried several times to get her into the pet carrier but i just cant do it. She simply hates it. Today, 5 days after the end of the kittens tablets, my older cat is sneezing and generally quiet. She’s eating and drinking but she was really stressful – she spent the last few days growling at the kitten and hissing. I will obviously take her to the Vet if she gets worse by tomorrow – even if that means just carrying her in my arms, but do these things just not clear up themselves. She is very healthy, in fact i can’t remember the last time she was ill. Should i just try giving her Lysine? Any help is greatly appreciated.
Folks- Ive lived with alot of cats and spent thousands at the vet. I love all my cats dearly. My wife and I are in a very bad economic situation right now, but when one of our critters gets sick, we take him to a vet! (Most will work with you if you cant afford it!) So go easy on Marko’ o.k?
These people are trained, see sick cats day in- day out, and hopefully keep up with the latest treatments. Most of them DO care, and know what they are doing.
Cats seldom get better on their own. IF YOU CARE, take that creature who depends on you to a professional! -
I found 4 abandoned kittens on a dirt rd. while staying at my brothers on a very hot day. One died 24 hrs later, maybe dehydrated, but Its eyes were badly encrusted so probably respiratory. I managed to clean the others eyes & gave them all baths to get rid of the fleas. I had to do this twice more & the third time I got rid of most of them with eucalyptus liquid wash & a flea comb + tweezers. You have to work really quickly & dry them fast; I finished them with a hair dryer. They were all pretty clean, eating well & playing after this, and then I took them home. Bad move – 2 of them fell into the pond twice. The strongest one started sneezing & water on their lungs can lead to pneumonia, so I checked the internet for a solution; coupage or percussion treatment the same as for people. Copy & paste the link , to see a video demo of it being applied to a dog, but it is the same for cats too. They don’t like it but it works.
Of course you need to be gentle, but the cupping makes them cough & splutter which forces the water out of their lungs. It took a few minutes for this to happen so be patient. Do it on both sides for best results. The female initially had no sign of sneezing or wheezing so I didn’t do it with her, & now she has a creaky door sound when she breathes, but the male is fine, after he spluttered and coughed for a minute, he jumped down, had some food & then pounced on the other male. I am away at the moment so am hoping my husbands gives it a go because it works. He thinks it is too severe, but death is pretty severe too, & it is final. As I mentioned, be gentle. You don’t want to crack their ribs, but it does need to sound a bit like a drum, & as they are small I only used one hand. Also I read that salt treatment in the air is good but don’t have details for that.
I have read in many articles about using brewers yeast in their food to keep fleas away. Apparently fleas dislike the taste of it in their blood. If you do try it use it in small amounts to get them used to it, & a word of CAUTION: absolutely DO NOT heat it. Only add to slightly warm, or cooled, food as it becomes toxic if you cook it. It is very good for their health though, as it is full of B vitamins, but just remember the warning.
Good luck to happy healthy cats!
My Phone is REALLY MESSING UP & I spent thw past 1.5 hrs trying to send a comment about my 10 year old cat who is very sick. let me start by saying I am a huge animal lover my animals are my kids and Ive had them all since they were babies & been there only owner.. I have 2 dogs & 2 cats all are inside animals. About 3.5 wks ago my 10/11 yr old male cat had class what I thought to be a cold he just laid in his bed 4 the first 3 days without eating or or any other activity.. On the 3rd or 4th day I realize he wasn’t moving around or anything so I began to bring him his food & water to him in bed where he started to eat & drink. He has made a full recoverythat’s his appetite is not back f100%. Now my problem is with my 9 year old male cat. I do realize he needs to go to the vet my only problem is I don’t have the money right now but I am calling around to try and find a place with payment options so I hope to have been seen by tomorrow.. I went out if town LATE on Sat the 26th& noticed he was under my bed when I left.. (I LIVE WITH MY MOM BUT ANY TINE I LESVE OVER NIGHT I HAVE MY BROTHER & HIS GIRLFRIEBD STAY HERE TO WATCH OVER THE ANIMALS AS WELL SO THEY ARE NEVER ALONE).. I came back home monday night & by Tues evening I realized he had not come out for food ANYTIME I POPPED A CAN OF CAT FOOD OPEN & TGATS NIT LIJE HUM HE ALWAYS BEGS FOR FOOD 24HRS A DAY EVEN WHEN HES NOT HUNGRY SO HES A VERY BIG CAT).., Tues night I started looking around for him and I found him under the bed in the same place he was when I left on Sat. I noticed his eyes had a lot of discharge like he had been crying for days so I pulled him out to check on him and try to feed him but he would not eat or drink anything… On Thurd I started giving him SMALL AMOUNT IF LIQUIDS THRU A MEDICATION DROPPE & Fri I started getting him a lot of liquids that way (Chicken Broth, Pedia Lught & water)… I just kept thinking he would get better if I kept liquids in him.. That Fri I took him to his box & he peed I thought everything was getting better and he would be back to normal in a day or 2 but that’s still not the case.. Now here I am 11 days later and he is no better than he was. I have to yeah I’ll give him water through the dropper & he still not eating. Hes licked some liquid cheese off my daughters finger I noticed so I was hopeful view is getting better.. Now again here I am thinking hes getting better because last night he ate a little bit of cat food on his own & alao 2 nughts ago he drank alot of water on his own but it’s like he will do it once and then not again.. I feel like he’s not fully dehydroated because when I take him to the box he will urniate… But the biggest problem is he’s not walking he will take about 3 or 4 that and then lay down or walk from 1 room to the other but that is the farthest.. whatever I lay him down he stays there for hours pretty much stays there until I move him. QUESTION DOES ANYONE KNOW WHY HE CANT REALLY WALK & HIS BODY IS LIKE LIMP WHEN I HOLD HIM?? I wonder if it is because he is weak or something different, and also when I pick him up he knows why is in cried a little bit so I don’t know if his body isn’t any pain
Hi rachel,
Sorry you were having trouble with the message. I can see you took a while to write it. I hate to say this but your pet cannot be diagnosed like this on the Internet – not eating and drinking is incredibly serious I hesitate to speculate what this could be but…..your pet SERIOUSLY needs a vet and every day not seeing one makes this worse and I wish you the best of luck.
Rachel, you really need to get your cat to a vet!
Hi Rachel
You do need to get him to a vet but I understand you not being able to afford it. In this instance carry him as much as possible. He is a mature, heavy cat so carrying him may not be possible, so at least have him curl up on your lap? Twice I have done this now with the kittens and it works wonders, they have bounced back to life…purring. But as your cat is older it may be due to old age…none-the-less vet advice is what you need.
Good luck
just wondering how long a cat cold lasts i have a6 month old british short hair the breeder said he has allergies but i brought to the vet anyway because he had nose discharge and sneezind constantly the vet said it was definately a upper respotory infection and gave him suppliments no improvement then gave him antibiotics and its been a month and he still sneezes every day throughout the day but alot less and no discharge inthe nose except when he sneezes and it has been a month now do you think this will stop or will this be a lifetime thing he eats all natural foods with no by products and my home heating system has a hepa filter any help would be appreciated thank you
I think I might scream. You don’t catch a cold you make it. Only give cats lactose free milk … if you have to… they will drink water… eventually! Ever seen a cat going up to a cow and sucking on it’s teets? Cows have more stomachs to digest milk. We have domesticated these cats into our routine. They don’t go and catch fish either, or bring down bulls. Rodents, small birds, lizards. They will eat grass, and certain fruits. The kittens that I rescued have survived all odds. They are on a vegetarian diet, have fallen into ponds (5 where they are now living-better than being flattened on a hwy) have been through sneezing, creaking lungs and spluttering … try the coupage technique (pummelling) gently on both sides of the rib cage. May need to do it for a few minutes – even when they try to escape. after a few minutes they will start to cat cough & spit water. Eureka! The water is coming out of the lungs…cats way o getting rid of it. Try to get your cat used to you doing this gradually and then build up to a stronger rythym. Cup your hands and it creates a kind of suction. It will move the fluid to a position where the cat can cough it out. CAT COUGHING IS AN ATTEMPT TO GET RID OF FLUID! At fist they tried to escape. Now they allow me to do it…I think this indicates that they know it works. In this state they can’t smell their food either- some don’t usually want to eat. Tempt them with it close to their nose. If they do eat try adding some coconut water in their food too. (avail. in tetra packs for $2 at supermarket). A small amount-1tsp-my kittens love Ayam coconut cream too. Coconuts are full of electrolytes-like when you give babies gastrolyte for diarhoea-dehydration. I know cats can’t crack open a coconut, but it works…and it isn’t a chemical that they have to try to process through their weakened systems. These poor little kittens had no mother so no immune milk for defences. They are fighting fit … last but not least … hold your cat close to your heart when they are not well. These kittens are play-full…every opportunity. They looked rather pathetic in their photos when I first found them. They have had no vet treatments…all natural vegetarian, lactose free, non-mucous forming foods. They are happy, contented, purring cats considering they looked so sick.
Just obey the rules of what they can’t have. Google what you don’t know…I knew nothing when I found them. Are his eyes glueing up? if so, can you get some eye bright herb or tincture? a couple of tsp of herb in some water, bring to the boil and steep for a few hrs. Strain and keep in a container in the fridge. tip small amount into a lid and use a cotton ball steeped into it to wipe across his eyes. The kittens I found couldn’t open their eyes-stuck together. They hated it and struggled violently whe I first used it…then as their eyes opened they let me do it…they all now have
bright eyes. I tried salt water solution…but they glued again…so this worked the best.
Try to go with your intuition and trust it. Your cat will trust you for it. Get diagnosis sure, but have faith in yourself too…and research…google heaps
google owes me royalties!
Hope your cat gets better soon and have a good Xmas.
thanks for the reply and i googled all about this breed of cat thats why i bought him its just time for his next round of needles and getting him fixed i just want him to be able to survive the operation as you know cats breathe through thier nose and there is no fluid in his lungs hes been through the snap test and x rays he just has astuffed nose that is why he sounds like darth vader its just its been a month now you would think it would have cleared by now again thinks for the reply
@Rick
I had the same thing happen with my cat..she had upper respiratory illness off and on for over 3 months..antibiotics were not very effective for her and after xrays and blood tests at the vet I found out my cat was very low on potassium and i bought a potassium gel via the vet and gave my cat one dose a day via syringe and it helped so much, the sneezing, the discharge from her nose cleared up..i also gave her diluted wheatgrass juice via syringe every few days and she is doing very well now,no more symptoms…fingers crossed and hoping she stays well
thanks janet will try that thank you vm happy holidays
I just read most of the above comments and am HORRIFIED at the fact that a lot of people are oblivious whether they should take their pet to the vet or “wait it out and see what happens” ARE YOU KIDDING ME?? Making your pet go thru an illness/injury for even just one day is animal cruelty if you ask me. To come here and ask questions and get advice is great, don’t get me wrong. It’s sites like these that could make the difference in many situations. I totally understand there’s a lot of people that just don’t have the money to take them to the vet, and I’m not doubting at all whether or not you love your pet, but seriously, common sense helps so use it!! Also, if you can’t afford to get proper care for your animals THEN DON’T OWN THEM!!!!! I wish all the stupid pet owners out there much luck on getting the proper care for that poor, suffering animal that didn’t ask you to own them in the first place.
So my kitty had his URI issue, I had trouble getting him into the vet so I used the advice here…guess what…my cat had a virus you can’t do anything but make them as comfortable as possible…due to his weakened immune system he did get a secondary bacterial sinus infection…so for that he got put on an antibiotic by the vet. The point is when I took him in, everything I was doing was exactly spot on for what my vet said….Here’s what to start with for those that need to make your kitty comfortable while dealing with a viral cold…
Keep them in a warm humid environment just like you’d do for a baby with a cold.
Give them warm broths/gravy (not too hot, cause you don’t want them to burn themselves and loose interest) The heat and limited steam will help loosen the congestion.
Saline nose drops (be careful you don’t want it to have anything but salt and water for ingredients in the saline solution…look for baby saline nose drops) Kitties aren’t fond of shoving droppers of cold wet stuff in their nose (also remember to let it drain out of nose doing this in a sink or bathtub will save you a mess), so have someone help you hold them and their claws.
The antihistamine Chlorpheniramine can be bought over the counter at any drug store (Walgreens CVG….found mine at the pharmacy at the grocery store but keep in mind grocery stores tend to keep most profitable drugs on the shelf…this one is fairly cheap) crushed in food didn’t work for my cat…tasted it hated it…gotta leave it in tablet form, max of 2mg per dose (mine were 4mg tablets so had to cut in half for 2mg and quarters for 1mg…easier for kitty to swallow too) Vet suggested 1-2mg doses…but neglected to tell me how often I could dose the kitty and max per day using my judgement I would assume that half the children’s max dosage would be correct since it works out to the same ratio…This works similar to a human for breaking up congestion. Also best to have a partner hold the cat when administering a pill sharp teeth and claws really hurt…you can do it by yourself (I did) but use a towel/blanket to wrap the snugly to keep the 4 paws of sharpness away from you…
For the secondary bacterial infection, yes seeing your vet is a required step because even if you can get your hands on black market antibiotics, they do not attack all bacterias the same and may not work (ALSO USUALLY MORE EXPENSIVE AND RISKY THAN TAKING YOUR ANIMAL TO A VET DURING NORMAL BUSINESS HOURS) To do this effectively you also need to have a knowledge on how to dose properly for the variance in kitty sizes. ***Antibiotics will not fix a virus*** if you choose to take the risk of self diagnosis your animal you need to be diligent with the antibiotics and finish a week (even if the kitty seems better after 2 days) of proper doses. Antibiotics are a prescription for a reason, you can create super bug and bigger more expensive problems or even death to your fuzzy one if you guess wrong.
So my advice…if cold is a new thing its probably a virus, but even if its bacterial….Humid warm environment is the single cheapest thing you can do to help your kitty be comfortable, and can save you money by avoiding an emergency middle of the night on a holiday weekend fees. Picking up a humidifier is a good investment because when you or your family get sick warm humid environment will help them too…
If your cat isn’t eating/drinking you have a serious problem that does require a vet’s attention.
My cat caught a respritory infection last week. I think she is getting it from when we visit my aunts house. She has had lots of cats and dogs. Some have died there at one time or another. My question is how can I get rid of this virus once and for all? My vet felt it was something we were bringing in the house. This is the second time she has gotten this. And now I think her mom is getting sick too. Both times have happened when we visited my aunt. I want to get rid of this virus. It is hard to see both my cats sick.
Why do people give “advice” when their only advice is to go see the vet? Most of us are aware of the existence of veterinary medicine already, but there are many people who offer pets good and loving homes who can’t afford professional care. This idiotic assumption that every pet-owner can afford a multi-hundred dollar vet visit is asinine. If you want to give advice, then learn something about animal care (which OFTEN includes over-the-counter drugs per my VET), and actually say something helpful.
My kittens are full of energy now, but 2 of them make a weezy sound when they breathe. They possibly have cat flu, but as a student pensioner I can’t afford vet bills. And I agree that you shouldn’t have pets who didn’t ask to be trapped by us if you aren’t prepared to take care of them. But I found these cats, they would have died; no water; no food; 3wks old; no mother; foxes; eyes glued together. I can’t afford to keep 3 cats really but I am doing it. I am not into pharmaceuticals at all, I am vegan, and allergic to cat hair, so I am doing my best. They are delightful and I am glad I have saved their lives.
As for treatment there are alternatives to what the vet may offer. I am trying Colloidal Silver (health shop) as it kills viral type problems. The naturopath said 1/2 tsp per day is enough for all 3 in their food, milk or water. I will post to let you know how it goes. Olive leaf extract is also another possibility as it is very good for the immune system. They may not like the taste though so syringe is an option. Green barley and wheat grass pwd are excellent in their food. I think I mentioned in an earlier post to include Brewers yeast as well to keep fleas away. DO NOT COOK IT. Mix it in when food has cooled. They love Sanitarium products made with TVP, also Nutmeat. I only give them cat milk, but they also love Ayam coconut cream. Ayam (full cream) coconut is 3 1/2 coconuts per tin. Coconut is excellent for electrolytes, it is also great for the immune system.
I had to give them standard milk once and they started sneezing and had diahorrea.
I think that the sound of 3 purring cats is an indication that they are happy, and these 3 purr all day long.
First let me say, one of the main reasons I work is to support my 5 cats! If anything serious were to happen to any of them, I want to be in a good enough financial position that I won’t have to make a decision on whether or not they get the proper care, whatever the cost. They are my children.
Isabella is at least 11 years old. She has had a chronic runny and snotty nose for years. The vet has tested for every feline disease in the book. Notta. She’s been put under and had her nose flushed and checked for polyps. Notta. I have changed the cat litter, changed the food, used lysine, used Little Noses saline drops, tried various antibiotics and over the counter decongestants. Nothing works. If it goes away at all, it comes back.
It is not contagious as none of the other 4 cats have ever exhibited the same or similar symptoms over the years. There has never been an issue with eye problems – just the nasal discharge.
Some of the threads above talk about potassium and wheatgrass. I’m going to try those. Any other suggestions are welcomed!
The colloidal silver is great, need to give something like yogurt with probiotics though as it will kill good bacteria off too.
my husband has been looking after the cats and reports that the weezing sound has completely gone in one of them. He uses 1/2 tsp of colloidal silver in their food (for 3 cats).
And just like you Marilyn they are like my babies. One of them will find the best spot to sit so he can see what my husband is doing when they are in the sun room.
Hope it wks for you too.
One of the male cats seems to be hyperactive. He continues to play when the other 2 have had enough. In fact he never stops. We are starting to think that he has ADD. Anyone got any suggestions?
Thanks for your response! I have never heard of colloidal silver. You think it will help with a chronic runny and snotty nose? Where do you buy it? Did you use 1/2 t. altogether for the 3 cats, or 1/2 t. each?
!/2 tsp altogether for the 3 cats. This was the dosage recommended by the Naturopath at the health shop. I read in one of the articles that cats will be attracted to the bowl of water with CS rather than without when they aren’t well. It has many applications and there are sites which refer to successful use with cats; goats; dogs. My niece had a stye on her eye and it healed in day using it. I remember being told to use a gold ring as a child and it always worked. Colloidal Gold is similar. You can also get copper and platinum or all four combined. Google Colloidal Silver and you will find various brands and suppliers as well as info. As I mentioned in an earlier post you need to include some bifidus friendly bacteria to diet as it will kill all bacteria good and bad. There is a spray avail which may be easier to administer. I have seen it by another co. in health shops.
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03/21/2009: Kate from Hervey Bay, QLD writes: “colloidal silver has been wonderful, i take about a tablespoon neat, i hold it under my tongue as long as possible, gargle then swallow it. i have’nt been near a doctor in almost 6 months and it was only two years ago i almost died from respirtory problems. i even give it to my cat, i took her to the vet thinking she had cat flu, the vet told me she was ok but she continued sneezing, coughing and vomiting. now nearly 3 months of giving her colloidal silver she is much improved. love…it”
Replies
[YEA] 06/30/2009: Nic from Sydney, NSW Australia replies: “Colloidal Silver restored my cat’s health.
My girl cat was very thin and was vomiting her food. She had become crabby and tense. She was also scratching her ears a lot and losing fur on her belly and legs. A month ago I began giving her colloidal silver by syringe in the mouth, starting with 1/4 teaspoon twice a day, working up to 1/2 teaspoon twice a day. It has worked a treat – she now eats all her food at one sitting, keeps it down, and is gaining weight fast, scratching is much better and fur is growing back. She is now much more relaxed so she must feel a lot better.
Giving the solution by mouth all the time is a bit tedious after a while so I have started pouring the dose onto her tinned food. However, I think giving it into the mouth is probably important for really sick animals as it gets absorbed into the bloodstream faster.”
There is a post re coconut oil too. One of the cats loves coconut cream and it has many health benefits.
I ‘google’ whatever I need to find out. Add the word ‘Natural’ to ‘treatment for cat fleas’, for example, and you will get alternatives rather than standard options.
Good luck with treating your cats.
I included URL’s but when I submitted it took them out. google The house of courtney Colloidal Silver. Earthclinic.com is the forum the posts came from. (Ignore ‘Read option 4′)
Hi. I have took in a stray cat (stays outside) and I’ve had her about 3 months. For the past couple days she was coughing, almost like a hairball but now its wheezing. She ia opening her mouth to breathe. Im.worried. don’t have much.money
This is an emergency – please borrow the money or make an arrangement with a vet….
Make ‘arrangements’ with a Vet? What country do you live in? NO vet I have been to will accept payment plans, reduced fees or anything. You know what they will do? Point you towards the credit account applications so you can also pay interest (if you’re even approved) on their $700.00 fees.
What on earth has happened to vet medicine costs? They are far more expensive in office costs than routine Dr. office visits for humans. It has become impossible to walk out of these places for less than 200-300. That is why folks on this forum are desperately looking for alternatives, not because they are stupid, or shouldn’t own pets. 10 yrs ago even, vet medicine was affordable. Now, forget it.
I too, have 3 cats now all with URi due to a new adoption. The Animal Humane of Albuquerque was heartless in their refusal to assist me with their own reduced cost clinics, or take any responsibility for adopting out a sick cat. Why not allow the cat to stay there and go their routine time of meds, instead of adopting to all of us? Simple. It’s cheaper to dump sick animals on us, and make space for another animal, and possibly save food costs. Makes their adoption numbers look better, too.
I have finally seen the light about the shelters. I have spent 1000s on my animals, and feel financially violated every time I leave a vet clinic. I’m currently unemployed and disabled, but not on SSDI, so I have some stress with money-and am pretty mad this little new cat is sick and got my older cats infected, too. Bad policy from the shelter. ‘Move ‘em thru’, that’s the plan…
You poor thing, what an experience. Invest in a bottle of Coloidal silver. It is fantastic and you can use it yourself as well. My brother and partner had the flu badly during winter, 2 days CS – gone. My 3 dumped, sickly, wheezing, sneezing kits are now fine. We spend more on them than we do on ourselves, but they are adorable. I am with you on the vet costs, it is outrageous. I have read on some forums of people trying all types of medication on their cats and finding that the natural altenatives have been best anyway. Colloidal silver kills all viruses and bacteria, and parasites. in animals and humans. make sure to give/take the probiotics with it though.(yogurt is cheapest and ok if it has one of the strains)
try making a broth with garlic and onions and thickening with gravy and some soaked dry food. keeps them healthy.
Even if I could afford vets i would still do my best to treat them myself with natural remedies. Rescue remedy is great to have on hand too for situations of stress.
hope it works for yours too.