Preventive Measures for Dog and Cat Flu Season
What is Feline and Canine Cold?
Compared to human colds, feline and canine colds can be much more severe. Cats commonly suffer from viruses like the Calicivirus, Mycoplasma, and Chlamydia, as well as the herpesvirus infections that lead to symptoms we know as feline rhinotracheitis, or "kitty cold." Unfortunately, once cats are infected with the Calicivirus or herpesvirus, there's no cure; the viruses remain in their bodies for life, ready to resurface when the cat's immunity drops.
Dogs, on the other hand, typically contract viruses like parainfluenza, influenza, and Mycoplasma. The symptoms of canine distemper can also mimic those of a dog cold, and it's highly contagious with low cure rates and high mortality. Without prompt treatment, it can also lead to neurological issues later on.
Symptoms of Feline and Canine Cold
The symptoms of feline and canine colds include coughing, sneezing, runny nose, lethargy, decreased appetite, heavier breathing sounds, elevated body temperature, increased eye discharge, and red, swollen eyes. Cats have a normal body temperature of 38.139.2 degrees Celsius, while dogs typically have a temperature of 3839 degrees Celsius. If you notice your pet's nose is dry and they seem listless, it's important to take their temperature to check for fever.
How to Prevent Feline and Canine Cold
1. During the peak season for feline and canine colds, it's crucial to keep your pets warm. Cold air can weaken their immunity, creating an environment where bacteria and viruses thrive. Therefore, during cooler times, avoid taking your cats and dogs outside, and ensure they sleep in a cozy, warm bed at night. For shorthaired breeds, consider adding a sweater or coat.
2. Ensure your pets receive proper nutrition by feeding them items like goat's milk, milk replacer, and chicken breast. Adding a supplement of multivitamins can also boost their immunity. Products like Pu'AnT's Antitrypsin IGY, which contains colostrum powder and immuneenhancing antibody factors, can be particularly effective.
3. Have pet cold medicine on hand. We recommend herbalbased products like GanNuoNing Shuanghuanglian Tablets, which are gentle yet effective. For more severe symptoms, you may need to use Furoxone Doxycycline to combat inflammation and coughing.
Understanding the symptoms, prevention, and medication for feline and canine colds is essential. If treated appropriately at home, most cases resolve within a few days. However, if symptoms persist for several days without improvement, it's vital to take your pet to a veterinarian immediately. This ensures that any viral infections like feline rhinotracheitis or canine distemper are diagnosed and treated promptly, preventing missed opportunities for the best possible outcome!
