Skip to main content

Chronic Upper Respiratory Infections in Cats

 Cats, much like their human companions, can suffer from a variety of upper respiratory infections (URI). Infections in cats can become chronic and linger for a prolonged period of time, potentially causing a variety of complications.

  Causes URI's in cats can be triggered by different types of viruses, including feline herpesvirus type 1 (FHV-1) and feline calicivirus (FCV). Bacterial infections may also cause URI's. Most commonly, they're due to Pasteurella multocida and Bordetella bronchiseptica. Other possible culprits include mycoplasma or chlamydophila. Cats with weakened immune systems, such as those with feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) or feline leukemia virus (FeLV), are more susceptible to developing upper respiratory infections. Symptoms Common symptoms of an upper respiratory infection in a cat include sneezing, nasal discharge, conjunctivitis, decreased appetite, lethargy, and fever. The infection can also lead to painful oral ulcers in some cases. If a cat suffers from chronic URI's, they may also display a persistently runny nose, recurrent bouts of sneezing, chronic conjunctivitis, and a potential change in voice due to laryngitis. Treatment The appropriate treatment for your feline friend largely depends on the cause of the infection. For viral infections, supportive care like ensuring hydration, good nutrition and warmth may be recommended by your vet. Antiviral medications may also be necessary in some cases. If bacteria are involved, antibiotics will most likely be prescribed. Pain management and nutritional support might also be necessary if the cat has oral ulcers. Vaccinations can prevent certain types of URI's in cats. These vaccinations are generally recommended for kittens, as they're most at risk, but also may be beneficial for adult cats. Conclusion Chronic upper respiratory infections in cats can be concerning for any pet owner. With careful management and a close relationship with your vet, these conditions can usually be kept under control, maintaining your cat’s quality of life. Remember to monitor your pet's health, especially if they're frequently in the presence of other cats, where infection risk is higher. Vaccinations and a healthy diet can greatly help in boosting their immunity. Most importantly, if you notice any persistent symptoms, do not hesitate to take your furry friend to the vet.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Signs of your Cat Has Imprinted On You

  Cats, despite their reputation for being aloof and independent, are capable of developing deep bonds with their humans. The process of this bonding can be called imprinting, similar to what happens between mother and offspring in the wild. However, how do we know if our cat has imprinted on us? Here are some signs to watch for:   1. Constant Purring : Cats purr for a number of reasons - when they are content, feel secure or when they want to bond with their human. A cat who frequently purrs when they are around you may have imprinted on you. 2. Sleeping on You or Next to You : Cats are at their most vulnerable when they are asleep. If your cat consistently chooses to sleep next to you, on your lap or curled against your side, it can indicate that they feel safe and secure around you. 3. Seeking Physical Contact : Cats who are imprinted on a person will often seek physical contact. This could include brushing against your legs, sitting on your lap, or wanting to be held or ...
Post a Comment
Read more

Wet Cat Food vs dry Cat Food Which Is Better?

  There’s an ongoing debate amongst cat owners on which type of food is better for their pets - wet or dry? Many cat owners will usually go with what their feline friend seems to like the most, but it is always wise to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of both types before making a decision.   Advantages of Wet Cat Food 1. Hydration: Wet cat food consists of about 70% to 80% moisture which can be very beneficial for cats. This is particularly important if your cat doesn't drink a lot of water, helping prevent urinary tract problems. 2. Palatability : Some cats might find wet food more appealing due to its texture and smell. 3. Lower carbohydrates: Wet cat food generally has fewer carbohydrates compared to dry food. Disadvantages of Wet Cat Food 1. Dental health: Some veterinary professionals argue that wet food doesn’t provide the same tooth-cleaning benefits that kibble does, which might increase the chances of your cat developing dental diseases. 2. Price : Wet ...
Post a Comment
Read more

Why Cats Sleep So Much

  Cats are known for their love of lounging around and catching some shut-eye. Averaging around 15 hours of sleep per day, some cats can even sleep up to 20 hours within a 24-hour period. The reason for this stems from their predatory nature. Cats are natural predators and in the wild, the hunt for prey is an intense activity which requires high energy. Sleeping for long periods of time helps cats conserve their energy.   Domestic cats sleep a lot due to lack of necessary activity, unlike their wild counterparts. The typical behavior of hunting, chasing and exploring aren't usually required of house cats, which results in the tendency to sleep more. Additionally, cats sleep in short bursts, usually for about 15-20 minutes at a time. Their sleep consists of both REM sleep (where dreaming occurs) and non-REM sleep. During REM sleep, a cat's brain activity is nearly as active as when it's awake. In senior cats, health issues can cause an increase in sleep. Issues such as art...
Post a Comment
Read more