Post by Admin on Dec 20, 2020 22:56:58 GMT 5.5
These infections include viruses such as Rhinotracheitis aka Feline Herpes Virus and Feline Calcivirus. These 2 viruses are responsible for approximately 90% of respiratory infections in cats. The main viruses and bacteria that cause URI in cats are highly contagious. An infected cat will shed contagious particles in their saliva or the secretions from nose and eyes.
How does this infection spread?
Most cats contract the virus through direct contact with other cats, since the viruses and bacteria can survive only for a short time in the environment – herpes virus can survive up to 18 hours outside the body, and calcivirus can live up to 10 days.
Common Symptoms of URI
• Sneezing, nasal congestion
• Conjunctivitis
• Discharges from nose or eyes
Less common symptoms
• Anorexia
• Lethargy
• Fever
• Enlarged lymph nodes
• Difficulty in breathing
• Squinting
Treatment
Most cats with uncomplicated cases of URI can be treated at home. For severe cases, vets will provide medical therapy. They may also prescribe topical eye medication in case of eye discharge. To avoid secondary infections, certain antibiotics may also be prescribed. Cats with nasal congestion can be placed in humid environments such as a steamy bathroom for 10-15 minutes daily. For excessive discharge, nose drops will be advised.
Sometimes, cats can lose their sense of smell due to the respiratory infection, due to which they have a decreased appetite. In such cases, tempt them with strong smelling canned foods or let the Vet prescribe an appetite stimulant. Most cases of URI last for 7 to 10 days.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How can this disease be prevented?
Since the disease can be caused by several disease agents, it is not always possible to prevent. However, the standard ‘ core’ vaccines for kittens and cats provide protection against feline viral rhinotracheitis and feline calicivirus.
Are my other cats at risk for infection?
A cat that has an acute upper respiratory infection will be infective to other cats during the incubation period and for up to 3 weeks after developing symptoms. A cat that is a carrier of an upper respiratory virus may always be infective to other cats.
Cats that are unvaccinated, are young, or have chronic underlying problems are more susceptible, and may develop a serious illness. Adult cats that have been adequately vaccinated will likely only develop a mild case of illness, which may resolve without treatment.
Am I at risk of contracting URI from my cat?
These infections are zoonotic in extremely rare cases. Most of the URI diseases in cats do not pose any threat to humans, with the exception of Bordetella bronchiseptica which in rare cases can cause illness in people with immune system disease. If you develop any signs like a runny nose or watery eyes while the cat is ill, consult your physician.
How does this infection spread?
Most cats contract the virus through direct contact with other cats, since the viruses and bacteria can survive only for a short time in the environment – herpes virus can survive up to 18 hours outside the body, and calcivirus can live up to 10 days.
Common Symptoms of URI
• Sneezing, nasal congestion
• Conjunctivitis
• Discharges from nose or eyes
Less common symptoms
• Anorexia
• Lethargy
• Fever
• Enlarged lymph nodes
• Difficulty in breathing
• Squinting
Treatment
Most cats with uncomplicated cases of URI can be treated at home. For severe cases, vets will provide medical therapy. They may also prescribe topical eye medication in case of eye discharge. To avoid secondary infections, certain antibiotics may also be prescribed. Cats with nasal congestion can be placed in humid environments such as a steamy bathroom for 10-15 minutes daily. For excessive discharge, nose drops will be advised.
Sometimes, cats can lose their sense of smell due to the respiratory infection, due to which they have a decreased appetite. In such cases, tempt them with strong smelling canned foods or let the Vet prescribe an appetite stimulant. Most cases of URI last for 7 to 10 days.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How can this disease be prevented?
Since the disease can be caused by several disease agents, it is not always possible to prevent. However, the standard ‘ core’ vaccines for kittens and cats provide protection against feline viral rhinotracheitis and feline calicivirus.
Are my other cats at risk for infection?
A cat that has an acute upper respiratory infection will be infective to other cats during the incubation period and for up to 3 weeks after developing symptoms. A cat that is a carrier of an upper respiratory virus may always be infective to other cats.
Cats that are unvaccinated, are young, or have chronic underlying problems are more susceptible, and may develop a serious illness. Adult cats that have been adequately vaccinated will likely only develop a mild case of illness, which may resolve without treatment.
Am I at risk of contracting URI from my cat?
These infections are zoonotic in extremely rare cases. Most of the URI diseases in cats do not pose any threat to humans, with the exception of Bordetella bronchiseptica which in rare cases can cause illness in people with immune system disease. If you develop any signs like a runny nose or watery eyes while the cat is ill, consult your physician.