Cats Can Catch Cold: What You Need to Know
Section 1: Symptoms of Cats with a Cold
It's quite common to notice that the symptoms of a cat with a cold are quite similar to those in humans. They may exhibit sneezing, runny nose, watery eyes, coughing, fever, decreased appetite, listlessness, and a preference for napping. These signs can be easily observed in a cat suffering from a cold. Cats can contract either a common cold or a viral cold. The former is often influenced by changes in weather and temperature, usually due to the cat catching a chill. The latter, however, is caused by a viral infection, which can occur when a cat's immune system is weakened or when their antibody levels are insufficient. Viral cold symptoms tend to be more pronounced and severe.
When a cat coughs, it may produce a crackling sound, but this is typically not a common symptom of a regular infection. If it does occur, it's usually not very noticeable or frequent. Coughing is more commonly associated with viral colds.
After a cat has a cold, you can easily feel their body heat when you touch them. A lack of appetite and a general sense of malaise are common symptoms that appear after a cat falls ill.
Section 2: How to Treat a Cat's Cold
Treatment for a cat's cold should be tailored to the symptoms. If the cat is not showing signs of coughing, you can administer a catspecific cold medicine like Guaifenesin. However, if coughing is present, it's advisable to supplement the treatment with vitamins, which can help alleviate both the cold and the cough.
If you notice a significant increase in your cat's body temperature, you should take their temperature. If it reaches 39.5°C or higher, it's important to give your cat a feverreducing medication. Wefen'an is a recommended option for cats. Additionally, you can assist in cooling down your cat with artificial physical降温 methods.
Pet Doctor's Tip: For more information on treating your cat's cold, including what to do if your cat is sneezing, you can read our article "What Medicine to Give a Cat That Has a Cold and Is Sneezing."
