Caring for a Winter Sick Cat: Tips & Remedies

When cats catch a cold, they exhibit several telltale signs:

Dry and Warm Nose:

Typically, a cat's nose should be moist and cool to the touch. If you notice that your cat's nose has become excessively dry and slightly warm, it's a good idea to take its temperature right away.

Abnormal Respiratory Symptoms:

Your cat may start to sneeze more frequently, cough, or even have difficulty breathing. These symptoms can be quite distressing for your furry friend.

Decreased Appetite and Watery Eyes:

Cold can really bring down a cat's spirits, leading to a loss of appetite or even complete refusal to eat. You might also notice your cat's breathing and heart rate increasing. The eyes may become red and watery, and your cat may resort to using its front paws to scratch its nose.

Coughing and Runny Nose:

Cats with a cold may cough and have a runny nose. Initially, the discharge may be watery, but it can later turn yellow and thick. This can be accompanied by an increased breathing rate, a rise in body temperature, and shivering. If left untreated, these symptoms can lead to complications such as bronchitis or bronchopneumonia.

Many pet owners wonder if human colds can be passed to cats, or vice versa. The answer is a resounding no. This is because cats and humans have different respiratory systems, so human colds cannot be transmitted to cats, and vice versa.

However, if you have a cold and come into close contact with your cat, you can become a carrier of bacteria. Other people who then come into contact with your cat might catch your cold!

Conversely, if your cat has a cold and you come into contact with it, then touch other healthy cats, you can act as a carrier, potentially passing the cold on to them.

It's crucial not to underestimate the seriousness of a cold, whether it affects you or your cat. If symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical attention promptly.