Common Causes of Frequent Colds in Kitten
When the natural temperature drops suddenly and the temperature difference becomes too great, it often leads to a decrease in the resistance of the respiratory mucosa in cats. Puppies, with their weaker immune systems, are particularly susceptible to catching a cold when exposed to cold air. If they cannot adapt to the change, they are more prone to getting a cold. Moreover, since kittens are more active than adult cats and tend to sweat after exercise, they are also more susceptible to catching a cold when exposed to cold drafts.
When kittens catch a cold, you can administer catspecific cold medicine. Avoid giving them medications like Shonin, as they often contain acetaminophen, which is toxic to cats. Instead, opt for catspecific cold remedies, such as Miao Jinggan, which should be given twice a day according to the instructions on the package.
If your cat continues to have a runny nose or nasal congestion, you may consider using products like Dibai Kang or cat eye drops.
Preventing kitten colds:
It can be challenging to detect a kitten's initial cold symptoms, as they may not be apparent. At this stage, it's crucial to assess the kitten's immune response and determine if they can prevent influenza. Vaccination can significantly reduce the severity of clinical symptoms, so it's advisable to have kittens vaccinated with a triple vaccine as they reach the appropriate age. Ensuring a balanced diet can also boost the kitten's immune system, helping them to recover naturally.
Moreover, it's essential for cats to eat during their illness. As long as they are willing to eat, they are generally in good condition. Cats rely on their sense of smell to detect food, so if their runny nose affects their sense of smell, they may not be able to detect food odors.
If a sick cat refuses to eat, you must take action. This may involve forcefeeding the cat with a syringe or choosing foods with strong odors, such as canned cat food.
The above information aims to shed light on the reasons behind kittens frequently catching colds and hopes to assist all cat owners. It's important to note that the symptoms of a common kitten cold are similar to those of feline herpesvirus (rhinotracheitis), also known as feline rhinitis. If you're unsure how to distinguish between the two, it's best to consult an online veterinary professional or seek treatment at a veterinary clinic.
