Does Your Cat Have a Cold?

When your cat starts sneezing, coughing, or displaying a runny nose, it’s natural to wonder: does my cat have a cold? Similar to humans, cats can catch colds, known in the feline world as Upper Respiratory Infections (URIs). These infections are typically caused by viruses or bacteria and can significantly affect a cat’s well-being. While a cold in cats is not exactly the same as in humans, the symptoms can be strikingly similar. Recognizing these signs early can lead to a quicker diagnosis and treatment, ensuring your pet returns to their playful, healthy self sooner. In this article, we’ll explore how to tell if your cat has a cold, what you can do to help, and when it’s time to consult your veterinarian. Understanding these key points helps you provide the best care for your furry friend, keeping them comfortable and healthy year-round.

Did you know that our feline friends can get their own version of colds or flus? In many cases, cats just feel a bit stuffy and tired for a few days, and then recover on their own. However, kitty colds can develop into upper respiratory infections, or URIs. These can be extremely dangerous! Senior cats and kittens are especially at risk, because of their weaker immune systems. A vet discusses cat colds below.

Warning Signs

Keep an eye out for warning signs. Lethargy is a common one. If Fluffy is stuffed up, she may sleep even more than usual. Some other red flags include coughing, sneezing, fever, runny nose, watery eyes, reduced food and/or water intake, wheezing, and/or difficulty breathing. Contact your vet right away if you notice any of these symptoms.

Medicine

Once Fluffy has been properly diagnosed with a cat cold, your vet will be able to give you specific treatment options. These may include antibiotics and/or other medications. Never give Fluffy human medications, unless your vet specifically recommends it. This applies to home remedies too. Things like garlic, whiskey, and turmeric, which are in many of Grandma’s old home remedies, might work for us but are extremely dangerous for our furry friends!

Home Care

Believe it or not, Fluffy may enjoy a bit of chicken soup. Skip the garlic, onions, rice, and pasta: warm, sodium-free chicken broth with some plain, boneless chicken (and perhaps some peas and carrots) is fine. Some kitties like having their canned food warmed up a bit. You can also put a humidifier on and/or bring your feline pal into the bathroom while you shower, so she can breathe the steam. You may want to get your cat a new bed or a comfy throw blanket to curl up in. You’ll also need to make sure your furry buddy is drinking lots of water. Of course, cuddles and ear scritches are on the agenda as well.

Preventing Colds

To ensure your cat remains healthy, especially if you’re concerned about the common issue where cats have a cold, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. First and foremost, keep up with Fluffy’s vaccinations, including the vaccine for feline calcivirus, which is a major cause of respiratory infections in cats. It’s also important to be aware of other serious feline diseases, such as Feline Leukemia, which can weaken a cat’s immune system and make them more susceptible to colds and other infections. Remember, cats can still spread the virus after they have recovered. By keeping your kitty indoors, you’ll significantly reduce the odds of her coming into contact with infected felines and catching a cold.

Can Cats Have a Cold? Understanding Feline Upper Respiratory Infections in 2025

Can humans catch cat colds?

Humans cannot catch colds from cats because the viruses that cause upper respiratory infections in cats are specific to felines and do not infect humans. Cat colds, often caused by feline calicivirus or feline herpesvirus, are strictly species-specific, meaning they do not cross over to humans. While the symptoms may appear similar to human colds, the pathogens responsible are different, ensuring no transmission from cats to their human companions occurs. It’s essential to manage these infections in cats through veterinary care to prevent complications, especially in kittens and senior cats.

Are there over-the-counter cold medicines for cats?

There are no over-the-counter cold medicines specifically for cats. It’s crucial to avoid giving cats human medications, which can be harmful or even fatal. Common ingredients in human remedies, like garlic or certain pain relievers, are toxic to cats. If a cat shows symptoms of a cold, such as sneezing or lethargy, it’s important to consult a veterinarian. The vet can provide a proper diagnosis and may prescribe cat-safe medications like specific antibiotics or other treatments tailored to the cat’s condition.

How long do cat colds typically last?

Cat colds, mirroring the common cold in humans, usually persist for about 7 to 10 days. However, the duration can vary depending on the severity of the symptoms and the cat’s overall health. Upper respiratory infections in cats, which are a severe form of these colds, may last longer and require prompt veterinary intervention. Ensuring your cat has a robust immune system through proper vaccination and care can mitigate the duration and severity of their symptoms. If symptoms worsen or persist beyond a week, consulting a veterinarian is essential to prevent complications.

Are cat colds contagious to other cats?

Cat colds, specifically upper respiratory infections (URIs), are indeed contagious among cats. Common pathogens like feline calicivirus contribute to URIs and can spread through direct contact or even from shared food and water bowls. Infected cats can continue to transmit the virus even after recovery, making isolation and proper hygiene crucial when a cat shows symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, or lethargy. To reduce the risk of transmission, maintaining regular vaccinations and keeping cats indoors are effective preventive measures.

Are there vaccines available for the viruses that cause cat colds?

Yes, vaccines are available for viruses that commonly cause colds in cats, such as the feline calicivirus. Vaccination is a crucial preventive measure, especially since infected cats can still transmit the virus even after recovery. Regular vaccination not only helps protect individual cats from severe symptoms and complications associated with these viruses but also aids in reducing the overall spread of infections among feline populations. Consultation with a veterinarian can provide guidance on appropriate vaccines and vaccination schedules to ensure a cat’s health and wellbeing.

Do you have questions about cat colds? Contact us, your local vet clinic in Springdale, ON, today! We offer comprehensive veterinary wellness and pet vaccination services to help keep your feline friend healthy and protected against various diseases, including those that can lead to colds and other respiratory infections.