Cat's Sneezing & Red, Swollen Eyes: Not Just a Cold!
What is Cat Cold?
The cat cold, also known as feline rhinitis, is a disease primarily characterized by fever and mucosal inflammation caused by catching a cold. Particularly during early spring or late autumn, when temperatures fluctuate rapidly or in airconditioned rooms, cats may struggle to adapt, leading to a weakened immune system and an increased susceptibility to sudden colds.
When a cat has a cold, it may shiver, have red, watery eyes, and a runny nose with clear discharge (which can become thicker in severe cases). The nasal mucosa may feel itchy, prompting the cat to frequently scratch its nose with its front paw. Cats with a cold may exhibit a higher respiratory rate and heart rate, and their skin temperature can vary. The extremities of their limbs and tips of their ears may feel cooler than usual.
Generally, cats with a cold can recover by taking some petspecific cold medicine, especially if they have a strong immune system. However, for feline herpesvirus, commonly known as feline rhinotracheitis, cold medicine is ineffective.
What is Feline Rhinotracheitis?
Feline rhinotracheitis is a highly contagious respiratory disease caused by the feline herpesvirus. The incubation period for the virus is typically 3 to 6 days, while that for chlamydia can last between 5 to 10 days. The virus rapidly reproduces in the epithelial cells of the cat's nose, throat, trachea, conjunctiva, and tongue, and is then released into the environment through secretions. Common symptoms include sneezing, runny nose, red and inflamed eyes, coughing, excessive tearing, and even conjunctivitis, oral ulcers, fever, and sudden death.
Therefore, if a cat is sneezing and has red, swollen eyes, it may not be suffering from a cold but rather from feline rhinotracheitis. In such cases, you can give the cat Lysine supplements, and for severe situations, consider using products like "AMox." However, it is strongly recommended to seek immediate veterinary care.
Understanding the symptoms of cat colds, such as sneezing and red, watery eyes, can be helpful for cat owners. It's important not to give cats human cold medicine, as it can easily lead to poisoning. If a cat's cold persists for an extended period or recurs frequently, it's advisable to consult an online veterinary doctor or visit a veterinary clinic for further examination.
