Upper respiratory disease, also known as upper respiratory tract infection (URTI), is a common condition that affects cats.

It is characterized by symptoms such as sneezing, nasal congestion, and discharge from the nose or eyes¹².

Symptoms

The symptoms of an upper respiratory disease in cats may vary but are usually characterized by:

• Sneezing
• Nasal congestion
• Runny nose
• Cough
• Clear to colored nasal and eye discharge
• Gagging, drooling
• Fever
• Loss of or decreased appetite
• Nasal and oral ulcers
• Squinting or rubbing eyes
• Depression
• Lethargy
• Hoarse voice¹²

Causes

Upper respiratory diseases in cats are typically caused by either a virus or bacteria.

Some of the viruses that can cause URTI include Feline Herpesvirus type-1 (also known as Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis or FVR) and Feline Calicivirus (FCV).

The most common bacteria that cause URTI include Bordetella bronchiseptica (B. bronchiseptica) and Chlamydophila felis (C. felis).

FVR and FCV are responsible for approximately 90% of all feline upper respiratory infections¹².

Effects

If left untreated for a prolonged period, complications from an upper respiratory disease may include not eating, lethargy, fever, enlarged lymph nodes, and squinting.

In severe cases, the cat may have difficulty breathing¹³.

Treatment

Treatment for upper respiratory diseases in cats often involves self-care measures and medications.

Medications for upper respiratory diseases can include antibiotics, antiviral medications, and supportive care such as fluids and nebulization therapy⁴.

Your veterinarian may prescribe an eye medication if your cat has a purulent eye discharge¹.

In all cases, appropriate supportive care, such as maintaining adequate nutrition and hydration, is very important⁵.

Conclusion

Upper respiratory diseases are common in cats but can lead to serious complications if left untreated.

Therefore, it is important to seek veterinary attention if symptoms persist or worsen.

Prevention measures such as avoiding direct contact with infected cats and keeping living spaces sufficiently ventilated can also help reduce the risk of contracting an upper respiratory disease¹.

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Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only. It is not meant to substitute for medical advice or diagnosis provided by your veterinarian. If your cat shows symptoms, please consult your veterinarian immediately.