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.
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