We all know how uncomfortable a cold is, and no one likes to have a stuffy nose, itchy throat or runny eyes. The most common kitten disease, upper respiratory infection (URI), is basically your cat’s version of a cold. However, some cats can become quite sick with a URI.
Most URIs are caused by viruses in kittens that are very contagious to other cats. This is why kittens adopted from shelters or outdoor cats who interact with stray cats are most often affected by this disease.
Common symptoms include sneezing, nasal congestion, discharge from the nose or eyes, swelling of the pink tissues around the eyes (conjunctivitis) and squinty eyes. Although most kittens remain in reasonably good spirits during a URI, some can become more seriously affected, refusing food, becoming very lethargic and potentially even struggling to breathe.
If you notice any signs of a URI, you should book an appointment with your veterinarian. Unless your kitten is severely affected, your veterinarian will have you treat your pet at home. Treatment may include medication to give your kitten by mouth, and drops or ointment to be placed directly in their eyes or nose. Since these infections are more likely caused by viruses than bacteria, your veterinarian will not likely prescribe antibiotics to treat the illness unless they suspect a bacterial component. Some kittens benefit from nasal drops to help loosen discharge from their tiny noses and help them breathe better. Steam can also help clear sticky noses, so your veterinarian may recommend putting your kitten in a steamy bathroom for 10 minutes once or twice a day.
Very sick kittens will need hospitalization and more advanced medications to help them feel better.
Because a URI is highly contagious, you should isolate your kitten from your other cats until they have recovered. Don’t share items between cats, such as food bowls or toys, and make sure to wash your hands after cuddling or treating your sick kitten so you don’t accidently pass the disease between cats.
URIs can occasionally recur. The disease will typically reappear during times of stress or low immunity. So don’t be surprised if your kitten begins sneezing or has watery eyes when you get a new pet or move to a new house, for example. The good news is that the signs of a URI are usually mild once your kitten reaches adulthood.
You can help reduce your kitten’s likelihood of a URI by keeping them up to date on their vaccines, which protect them against the common organisms that cause a URI. Keeping your kitten indoors and away from other potentially unhealthy cats can also help keep them healthy.
Concerned that your kitten may have a URI? VCA clients can Live Chat for free* 24/7 with the myVCA™ app.
*Live Chat with a licensed veterinary professional is free for VCA clients through the myVCA mobile app, available at Apple’s App Store and Google Play.
