Typical Duration for Cat Flu & Fever Recovery: How Long
How Long Does a Cat's Fever and Cold Last?
Just like humans, there's no definitive timeline for how long a cat's cold and fever might last. It varies from case to case, depending on the severity of the symptoms. A mild case might clear up in 23 days, but more severe symptoms could persist for several weeks without proper treatment. Typically, if a cat is treated on time with the right medication, recovery can be expected within a week to two weeks. In more unusual circumstances, a gradual and careful nursing process will be necessary.
How to Care for a Cat with a Cold?
Regulate the Humidity: Maintain a comfortable level of humidity in your home and provide a quiet, restful space for your cat. In colder climates, dry air can weaken the mucous membranes. Use a humidifier to keep the environment at an appropriate level of humidity. In warmer regions, a dehumidifier is recommended to prevent bacteria growth due to high humidity.
Feeding: Cats rely heavily on their sense of taste, so if their nose is blocked, they might lose their appetite. Offer your cat their favorite food, perhaps slightly warmed to enhance flavor, or consider a prescription wet food that they prefer during illness. If they refuse to eat for an extended period, intravenous feeding may be necessary to maintain their nutrition.
Clean the Discharge: Wipe away any discharge from your cat's face. If prescribed by a veterinarian, use eye drops or nasal sprays as directed.
Isolation: If you have multiple cats, isolate them as much as possible to prevent the spread of illness. Don't hesitate to use a cage for this purpose, especially in smaller homes where dedicated isolation rooms might not be feasible.
Be Aware of Feline Rhinotracheitis: This highly contagious upper respiratory infection can be severe and is usually transmitted through the respiratory and digestive systems. Pay close attention to kittens, who have weaker immune systems and are more susceptible to infection. Symptoms may include sneezing, runny nose, and eye discharge, along with diarrhea, bad breath, and even limping. In mild cases, cats may continue to eat, play, and sleep normally, making the illness hard to detect. Many mistakenly confuse feline rhinotracheitis with a cold due to their similarities. Therefore, if your cat has a cold, it's best to consult a veterinarian to rule out other diseases.
It's important to note that cats with severe colds and fevers may have a difficult time recovering without treatment, and there's a high risk of recurrence. If you notice your cat is unwell, it's best to seek veterinary care promptly and consider testing for feline parvovirus as well.
