Causes of Feline Rhinotracheitis & Distinguishing from

What exactly causes feline rhinitis? The answer is multifaceted, as various viruses and bacteria can trigger the symptoms associated with rhinitis. The most common culprit is the feline herpesvirus, which accounts for approximately 80% to 90% of all cases of rhinitis in cats. Other causes include the feline calicivirus, chlamydia, mycoplasma, and Bordetella, which can even lead to mixed infections.

Even after recovery, cats can carry the virus for months, and in some cases, their entire lives, including during pregnancy. Many herpesvirus carriers may appear healthy, but they can suddenly fall ill when their environment changes or stress levels rise. This is why it's not uncommon for seemingly healthy kittens in shelters and rescue centers to become ill once they are brought into a new home.

Difference Between Feline Rhinitis and Cold

Symptoms of feline rhinitis: Although there are multiple pathogens that can cause rhinitis in cats, the common symptoms are generally as follows:

1. Excessive mucous discharge from the eyes and nose.

2. Watery eyes, conjunctivitis, and red, swollen eyelids.

3. Frequent sneezing and headshaking.

4. Elevated body temperature, with cats exhibiting symptoms of fever around 40 degrees Celsius.

Symptoms of feline cold: This is a disease primarily caused by cold stimuli, characterized by fever and upper respiratory infections. The main symptoms of a cold in cats include sneezing and runny nose. In severe cases, cats may experience thick, puslike nasal discharge, and even pneumonia.

How to differentiate between feline rhinitis and cold:

The early symptoms of both feline rhinitis and cold are quite similar, with symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and a lack of energy. However, cats with rhinitis will have an increased amount of discharge from their eyes and nose.

The most effective way to determine the difference is to take your cat to a veterinarian for a diagnostic test.

We hope this comprehensive guide on the causes of feline rhinitis and its distinction from the common cold is helpful to all cat owners. For more information on feline rhinitis, you can visit "What to Do If Your Cat Gets Rhinitis" for further details.