Difference Between Feline Rhinitis and Common Cold
1. Chronic Rhinitis in Cats
Cats often suffer from frequent sneezing, loud breathing, and smelly nasal discharge, which might indicate a bacterial infection. If left untreated, this infection can gradually develop into chronic rhinitis. At this stage, cats may frequently sneeze due to discomfort in their noses, much like we experience with a common cold.
Chronic rhinitis in cats can also worsen into pneumonia if not properly treated. Therefore, it is crucial not to ignore any signs of illness. Any cat showing unusual symptoms should be seen by a veterinarian immediately for targeted treatment.
2. Sinusitis
When the nasal sinuses at the back of a cat's nose become inflamed, sinusitis can lead to a range of symptoms: frequent nasal discharge, sneezing, a swollen and congested bridge of the nose, and difficulty breathing. If you're unsure why your cat is sneezing, you can start by administering antiinflammatory medication. If the situation does not improve, it's essential to consult your veterinarian.
3. Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis (Feline Rhinotracheitis)
Cats with feline rhinotracheitis often have excessive tears and eye discharge. Symptoms include sneezing, coughing, nasal discharge, bloodshot eyes, fever, and an increase in tear production. In severe cases, these symptoms can lead to keratitis and conjunctivitis, as well as rhinitis.
The virus that causes feline rhinotracheitis is highly contagious and can spread through various catrelated items. During the illness, thorough disinfection of the home and sunning of cat items is necessary to prevent further transmission.
Understanding the differences between feline rhinotracheitis and common cold rhinitis is crucial for cat owners. Whether it's rhinitis or rhinotracheitis, the best course of action is to follow medical advice. Don't treat these conditions as mere colds, as this can delay recovery and potentially spread the infection to other healthy cats.
