https://www.chewy.com/education/cat/health-and-wellness/upper-respiratory-infection-in-cats
Upper respiratory infections (URIs) in cats affect the nose, throat, sinuses, and mouth, causing symptoms like sneezing, congestion, and nasal or eye discharge.
These infections are highly contagious and spread through direct contact with infected bodily fluids or contaminated surfaces.
Cats at higher risk include kittens, seniors, brachycephalic breeds, and those with underlying health conditions or high stress environments.
Most URIs are caused by feline herpesvirus (FHV-1) or feline calicivirus (FCV), which can lead to recurring illness in lifelong carriers.
Bacterial infections may also occur, often as secondary complications following a viral infection. Treatment typically includes supportive care, with additional medications like antibiotics or antivirals prescribed depending on the severity and underlying cause.
Caring for a cat with a respiratory infection at home means making sure they stay hydrated, offering warm or strongly scented food to spark their appetite, using steam or a humidifier to ease breathing, and gently wiping away discharge to keep them comfortable.
To help protect them in the future, keep their vaccinations current, create a calm, low stress environment, maintain clean living spaces, and avoid exposing them to other sick animals.
Chewy editorial team shares that upper respiratory infections in cats are much like the common cold in humans, often leaving cats feeling congested and under the weather.
With expert veterinary insight, you will learn what causes these infections, how to recognize the signs, and how to support your cat’s recovery with care and comfort.
