Upper Respiratory Infection

Feline upper respiratory infection is a very common viral infection, caused most commonly by calicivirus or herpesvirus. It is compared to the human common cold, and usually lasts for about a week. The viruses are spread through moist contact, like sneezes, infected discharges or sharing dishes.

These viruses are recurring, sometimes over a cat’s entire life. Herpesvirus usually recurs about a week after a stressful incident (like a new pet in the house, boarding, surgery).

Susceptible cats include:

• Shelter cats
• Outdoor cats
• Kittens (because their immune system is not strong) 

SYMPTOMS: 

The following symptoms indicate a mild infection, just like a human cold:

• Sneezing and coughing
• Discharge from the nose, mouth or eyes
• Ulcers in the nose, mouth or eyes
• Hoarse voice

If the infection becomes more serious, you will notice the following symptoms:

• Loss of appetite
• Difficulty breathing with an open mouth
• High fever and lethargy

In kittens, these viruses can lead to pneumonia or arthritis. Call your vet immediately.

DIAGNOSIS: 

Your vet may be able to diagnose your cat with a simple physical exam.

Additional tests may include:

• PCR testing: a simple throat swab which is an extremely sensitive test for viruses in your cat’s DNA
• Immunofluorescence: uses a fluorescent dye to illuminate viruses or their antibodies in body tissue
• Radiographs: may show inflammation or infection of the lungs, indicating pneumonia

TREATMENT: 

• Hospitalization: your cat will be boarded in a cage with proper humidity and oxygen to help breathing
• IV fluids for dehydration
• Anti-bacterial medication: This does not help against the actual virus, but will prevent and treat any secondary bacterial infections that can result from the virus
• Oral medications for ulcers
• Eye ointments
• Nose drops for congestion
• Vaccines

PREVENTION: 

• Follow the vaccine schedule recommended by your vet
• Only allow vaccinated cats in your house
• Separate infected cats from other cats
• Wash your hands after handling the infected cat, because contaminated hands can spread the disease to other cats
• Maintain a stress-free environment to prevent recurrence

PROGNOSIS: 

Your cat may need to be hospitalized to safely survive the symptoms, but there is a very good prognosis. Death in adult cats is unusual; serious illness and death in young kittens is more common.