Although cats are unique, independent creatures, they aren’t immune to getting sick. Cats can catch colds, but not from humans or dogs. They have their feline version of the “cold” infection, which different viruses cause. In rare situations, they can also come down with the flu or pneumonia.
Below, I’ll share some causes and symptoms of feline upper respiratory infection (URI), how it differs from human colds, and how it spreads. Plus, I’ll offer some practical tips to help your cat feel better and recover quickly.
Are Cat Colds Contagious?
Yes, feline viruses spread by direct contact with infected cats, by grooming, sharing food or water bowls, or fighting
They can also catch colds from contaminated items like bedding, toys, or litter boxes. The viruses can survive in the environment for several hours or days.
Can Cats Catch a Cold From Humans?
Cat owners may find reassurance in knowing that their kitties’ colds are not transferable to humans or vice versa.
When we say a sick cat or dog has a “cold,” it means they have similar symptoms to a human respiratory illness. However, the broad term “cold” refers to different animal viruses.
- In cats, the infection resembling a human cold is usually feline herpesvirus and feline calicivirus. Both viruses are specific to cats and don’t infect humans or other animals.
- In people, the cold virus is usually a rhinovirus, though others like coronavirus and parainfluenza can also be to blame. Viruses specific to humans are not transmissible to pets because they have adapted to infect human cells only.
Can Cats Catch a Cold From Dogs?
URI in pets usually spread from one cat to another or dog to another. They rarely spread across different species.
Therefore, the chances of a cat getting sick from a dog with a cold is low. Fortunately, our pets keep their illnesses to themselves and don’t often pass them on to other animals or humans.
Did you know that cold symptoms in dogs and cats can also indicate kennel cough? This highly contagious respiratory disease is more prevalent in dogs than in cats, often needing veterinary treatment.
Tips to Avoid Contact with Sick Animals
When our cats are sick, we must keep them away from sick animals or those with unknown health issues to protect them. A few pointers:
- Cats who stay in catteries may also expose one another to the infection.
- Indoor cats are less at risk than outdoor cats because they don’t interact with other kitties.
- If you have multiple pets at home, please isolate the sick one from the others until they recover.
What Are the Symptoms of Cat Colds?
Signs of a cat cold are similar to those of a human common cold, usually lasting 5-10 days. Symptoms include:
- Wet or dry sneezing
- Sniffles or nasal congestion
- Coughing or gagging
- Watery or red eyes
- Runny or crusty nose
- Moderate or low fever
- Decreased appetite or thirst
- Sleepiness or lethargy
Tips to Help Your Cat Feel Better
Mild cat colds usually require lots of tender, loving care at home. Here are some simple and practical ways to make your pet cat feel more comfortable:
- Gently wipe their dripping nose and weepy eyes. I use to clean my cat’s face and ears because I trust them to be soothing, healing, and safe.
- A humidifier can make the animal feel more comfortable by moistening the air. Running one can help reduce the coughing and sneezing that irritate their throat and nose.
- Cats love blankets, so make their favorite spot cozy by providing an extra layer to help them snuggle and stay warm.
Please don’t administer human cold medication (or any over-the-counter products or remedies) without the guidance of your veterinarian. Keep in touch with your vet to see what medication they recommend.!
Feeding a Nutritious Diet
Cats need to eat a quality diet and get enough hydration to support immunity and overall health. The best approach is to feed them a balanced formula that satisfies their nutritional needs and tastes.
To make meals enticing:
- Add a bit of tuna juice or low-sodium chicken broth.
- Warm their food slightly to make it more appealing.
Some sick cats benefit from a bland diet for a few days, to get back on track. They still need to eat and drink, but basic food may be easier to digest.
Offering Health Supplements
With your vet’s guidance, you could also give them some immune-boosting supplements, such as:
- Vitamin C, a potent cell protector, fights infections and swelling.
- Lysine, an amino acid, helps control the herpes virus (one of the leading causes of cat flu).
- Probiotics are helpful bacteria that help balance gut flora and improve digestion and immunity.
Reducing Their Stress Level
Stress can weaken a cat’s immune system, making them more susceptible to infections. Creating calm and comfortable surroundings helps lower their anxiety.
One way to do this is by using Feliway—an artificial version of the pheromones cats give off to mark territory and feel safe. You can use them as diffusers, sprays, or collars, depending on what they respond to best.
What to Do If Your Cat Has Severe Symptoms
Extra treatments may be necessary for animals with severe symptoms (like excessive discharge, crusting, squinting, or major eye irritation).
Some may also develop ulcers in the mouth or eyes, especially if infected with feline calicivirus. Sadly, these symptoms can be painful and affect a cat’s ability to eat or see.
Eye drops, ointments, or prescription antiviral medications are all possible options you can discuss with your vet.
Be alert for:
- Persistent or bloody sneezing
- Excessive or yellow-green nasal discharge
- Swollen eyes
- Tiredness or depression
- Coughing or wheezing
- Labored or heavy breathing
- Loss of appetite or weight
- Fever or dehydration
- Cyanosis (a bluish-purple color of the gums)
Some cats unfortunately experience pneumonia, particularly seniors or those with low immunity. This condition can be life-threatening in some cases, so please reach out for fast veterinary care if you notice any of these signs.