Cat Cold Symptoms & Medications for Quick Recovery
What Are the Symptoms of a Cat with a Cold?
1. If your cat frequently sneezes and, at the same time, has a runny nose, these are telltale signs that your feline friend might be suffering from a cold.
2. Pay attention if your cat is coughing and shivering. While some cat owners might not be overly concerned about their pet's shivering, it's actually a common symptom of a cat's cold. It's important to remember that this is not a sign of a severe illness, but rather a typical cold symptom in cats.
3. When a cat has a cold, it may occasionally have a runny nose due to congestion. This can cause its breathing to sound louder than usual. Normally, cats breathe quietly and smoothly, so if you notice your cat's breathing is labored and noisy during sleep, it could be a sign of a cold.
4. If your cat is frequently tearing up or showing signs of a stuffy nose, it might also be suffering from a cold. This is quite similar to the symptoms humans experience when they have a cold.
What Medication Can Help a Cat with a Cold?
For upper respiratory infections in cats, antibiotics are commonly prescribed. Commonly used medications include amoxicillinclavulanate potassium, enrofloxacin, and mafenide. You can purchase these at a pet hospital, but always follow the recommended dosage instructions on the packaging. It's crucial not to give your cat human cold medications without a veterinarian's advice, as many contain acetaminophen, which can be fatal to cats.
When it comes to your cat's cold symptoms and treatment, it's important for cat owners to be aware that colds and feline herpesvirus (rhinotracheitis) share many similar symptoms. If you're unsure about the diagnosis, it's best to take your cat to a vet or consult with an online veterinary professional for proper guidance.
