Cat with Discharging Eyes, Sneezing, Unable to Open Eye

When your cat exhibits certain symptoms, it's highly probable that they have caught a cold. However, there's also a distinct possibility that your feline friend is suffering from a condition known as feline rhinitis.

Feline rhinitis is caused by the herpesvirus, and its symptoms closely mimic those of a cold. Yet, the underlying pathophysiology is entirely different. If your cat has rhinitis, the most prominent symptom is the development of inflammation within the body, a symptom that differs significantly from a cold. As rhinitis progresses, your cat may experience symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and in some cases, fever, loss of appetite, and excessive sleepiness. If your cat is sneezing and has a runny, yellowish discharge, accompanied by these symptoms, it's quite likely that they have contracted rhinitis. Once infected, cats with rhinitis have a weakened immune system, and without proper care, they can become gravely ill. Therefore, prompt treatment is essential.

What to Do When Your Cat's Eyes Have Discharge

What should you do if your cat is diagnosed with rhinitis?

1. Sanitizing Your Home Environment

A significant reason cats contract rhinitis is due to unsanitary living conditions. Therefore, when your cat is diagnosed with rhinitis, thorough sanitization of your home is crucial. It's best to isolate your cat in a different area and disinfect their previous living space, including the litter box and toys, to ensure all viruses are eliminated.

2. Feeding Lysine

Lysine is a powerful weapon against rhinitis viruses. Cats are unique in that they cannot synthesize lysine internally. By supplementing your cat's diet with lysine, you can help combat the rhinitis virus.

3. Administering Antibiotics

Since rhinitis is caused by a virus, antibiotics can have a direct impact on virus suppression. Medications like amoxicillin and tetracycline are effective against herpesviruses. It's best to have your cat treated by a veterinarian, who can administer the appropriate antibiotics. If your cat is at home, you can also give them amoxicillin to help manage the infection.

4. Using Eye Drops

Rhinitis can lead to conjunctivitis in cats, so eye drops can help alleviate the inflammation and also assist in killing the virus within the body.

Remember: For more information on cat colds, you can watch "Can Cats with a Cold Take Amoxicillin?"