Persistent Cat Flu and Fever: Possible Causes and Solut

When a cat develops a cold with a fever, prompt treatment typically leads to recovery within a few days. In more severe cases, the healing process can take up to 23 weeks. However, if a cat's cold and fever persist, it's crucial to be vigilant, as it may indicate a more serious condition, such as feline panleukopenia, commonly known as feline distemper.

Firstly, here's how to handle a cat's common cold and fever that just won't go away:

Cats often catch colds due to factors like exposure to cold winds, not drying off after a bath, sleeping on cold floors, or sudden changes in weather. Puppies are more susceptible to colds than adult cats, as they have weaker immune systems and less tolerance to cold temperatures.

As a pet owner, it's important to take proactive steps to keep your cat warm. This includes dressing your cat in appropriate clothing, providing a wellinsulated bed or blanket, and using a hot water bottle or a heater during colder months.

Cats with poor health are more prone to illness, so it's essential to provide them with a rich diet to boost their immune system and regain energy. However, colds can affect a cat's sense of taste and lead to a decrease in appetite. In such cases, offering nutritional supplements can be beneficial.

Secondly, symptoms similar to a cold caused by feline distemper:

Feline distemper is characterized by symptoms such as a high fever, sneezing, watery eyes, and a runny nose. The fever can fluctuate, with periods of high and low temperatures. Most affected cats also exhibit eye discharge. Early stages of the disease may include vomiting and diarrhea, often starting with vomiting followed by diarrhea. Pet owners should be attentive to these symptoms and take appropriate action.

Treatment for Feline Distemper:

Ensure the cat stays warm.

Isolate the sick cat from other pets in the household and maintain a clean environment.

Administer feline distemper hyperimmune serum, which contains antibodies against the virus. If this serum is not available at the vet's office, it can be extracted from a vaccinated, healthy adult cat and then injected into the sick cat.

Prevent acidosis.

IV fluids are the best form of treatment. If IV treatment is not possible, administer a mixture of 10% glucose and normal saline at regular intervals to replenish fluids and energy.

Prescribe antibiotics to prevent secondary infections. It's best to follow the vet's advice on antibiotic use, as it complements hospital treatment for optimal results.

Supplement with probiotics or health supplements containing beneficial gut flora to counteract the disruption of gut bacteria caused by the use of antibiotics.

During the recovery period, be mindful of the cat's diet. Avoid feeding milk, eggs, chicken liver, and other difficulttodigest foods. Instead, offer easytoswallow liquid meals like minced meat porridge or soup. Feeding can be done using a syringe, and nutritional supplements can also be provided for a more balanced diet.

For a detailed explanation of why a cat's cold and fever persist, it's important to consult a veterinarian promptly. If one veterinary clinic's treatment is ineffective, consider seeking care elsewhere. Don't hesitate to explore other options to avoid delaying the cat's recovery.