If your cat is sniffling and sneezing, they may have a cold. Here, our Crystal Lake vets share the common signs of cat colds, when you should visit the vet, and what can be done to treat them.
Does my cat have allergies, or is it a cold?
Many pet parents ask us, 'Can cats get a cold, or do they have allergies?' While allergies are possible, cats can catch colds just like humans, and the symptoms include sneezing and sniffles. Cat colds are highly contagious, and outdoor cats are more at risk than indoor cats because they are more likely to interact with other cats.
When cats spend time together in close quarters, they risk spreading and contracting contagious diseases. If your cat has recently been boarded and suddenly develops a cold, it's possible that it was exposed to another cat with a cold.
A cold isn't a serious illness in itself, but if left untreated, your cat may become susceptible to several other conditions and infections.
Signs & Symptoms of a Cat Cold
If you notice the following symptoms, bring your cat to your primary vet for a wellness exam.
- Runny nose
- Watery eyes
- Sneezing
- Loss of appetite
- Fever
- Sniffling
- Coughing
- Dehydration
If your cat begins to show any concerning symptoms like vomiting, seizures, or lethargy, bring them to our emergency animal hospital in Crystal Lake.
What to Do if Your Cat Has a Cold
When your cat suffers from cold symptoms like a runny nose or eyes, you can help them feel better by wiping their nose with a clean cloth and their eyes with a saline solution-dampened cloth. Setting up a humidifier may also be a good idea to help add moisture to the air.
If your cat has difficulty breathing due to congestion, place them in their pet carrier, put a bowl of hot water in front of it, and cover both with a blanket for 15 minutes. This can go a long way toward helping your cat to breathe easier.
Keeping your cat well-fed and hydrated is important to help them recover more quickly. Try warming up their food, which may make it more appealing and easier to swallow. Provide extra blankets in their bed or favorite spot to keep them warm.
Never give your cat human cold medicine or any medication without consulting your vet first. Always check with your vet to determine the best treatment for your cat's illness.
My cat has a cold. Should I bring them to CASE Hospital?
Most colds will disappear without further intervention in about one to two weeks. However, monitoring your cat's health during this time is important. If there are no signs of improvement by the fourth day, it's best to take your cat to the vet. An untreated cold can lead to pneumonia, which can be more severe.
Usually, a cat's cold symptoms will improve within a few days. However, if your cat has been experiencing cold symptoms and there is no sign of improvement within four days, it may be time to see a veterinarian.
Just like humans, it is important to care extra for older cats, kittens, and cats with other health conditions. This is particularly true for cats that are nursing or have not been vaccinated.
If left untreated, a cat's cold can lead to more serious infections. If your cat is a senior, a young kitten, or has a weakened immune system, it is essential to contact a vet.
If your cat starts coughing, has trouble breathing, or stops eating, it is crucial to take them to the nearest emergency pet hospital in Crystal Lake as soon as possible.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. Please visit your vet for an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition.