Watch Out for Cat Cold Symptoms: Be Aware of Feline Rhi

What is Feline Cold?

Commonly referred to as "upper respiratory infection," feline cold shares similarities with human colds, hence the name. It manifests in cats through symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and even fever. However, just because it's called a "cold" doesn't mean it's not serious.

Young kittens can suffer from feline colds caused by three main pathogens: feline herpesvirus, feline calicivirus, and Chlamydia.

What is Feline Rhinotracheitis?

The feline cold you might be seeing could actually be something more sinister—a herpesvirus infection. Feline Rhinotracheitis Virus, also known as feline infectious rhinotracheitis, is what we commonly refer to as "cat cold," and it's a highly contagious acute disease that can be harmful to a cat's health.

In the early stages of the disease, cats may exhibit symptoms such as watery eyes and sneezing, along with a lack of energy, high fever, and decreased appetite. As the condition worsens, you might notice puslike discharge from the eyes and nose. Severe respiratory blockage can lead to difficulty breathing and even death. Severe eye infections can result in vision impairment or even blindness.

Young kittens under one year of age, particularly those newly adopted, thin and weak kittens, and adult cats with weakened immune systems are more susceptible to feline rhinotracheitis. Without timely treatment, the mortality rate for young kittens can reach up to 50% or more.

Therefore, what appears to be a common cold in kittens is not what we typically recognize as a cold. When your cat shows signs of discomfort, do not administer medication at random. It's crucial to take your cat to a professional veterinary hospital as soon as possible to avoid delaying treatment and risking your pet's life.

I hope this comprehensive guide on the symptoms of kitten colds and proper response measures can assist all cat owners. If you're unsure about the cause of your cat's cold, don't hesitate to consult an online veterinary expert or seek treatment at a veterinary clinic.