The cat you just adopted may have or may develop an upper respiratory infection similar to colds in people. Upper respiratory infections (URIs) are very common in situations where large numbers of animals are housed in one place or when a cat has been outdoors fending for herself in the elements.
The most common signs of URI are a runny nose, sneezing, watery eyes, congestion, and fever. Fortunately, this is not usually a serious condition, and most cats recover in about 2 weeks. Whether your cat has symptoms or not, please use your free veterinary coupon included in your adoption packet at your own veterinarian as soon as possible.
Tips for dealing with URI:
- See your veterinarian and follow their instructions for treatment.
- Keeps your cat in a warm, secure room while sick. (This is also a good idea for any new pet, even healthy cats!)
- Make sure other cats in your home are fully vaccinated. Isolate the sick cat from healthy ones, as upper respiratory infections are contagious.
- Use the bathroom as a steam room. Take your cat into the bathroom when you shower and let the room fill with steam. This often helps break up congestion.
- Keep your cat’s face clean. If any dried discharge builds up on the nose or face, clean it off with a soft cloth wetted with warm water.
- Check for dehydration. Dehydrated cats/kittens can get into serious trouble very quickly.
- Feeding tips: Some cats become reluctant to eat because the congestion makes it difficult to smell or taste food. If your cat loses her appetite, try the following ideas:
- Warm up your cat’s food. Warm food (not hot!) smells and tastes better.
- Try different brands of canned cat food. Some are more flavorful than others. “Fancy Feast” seems to be one of the more palatable brands. Some can be encouraged to eat Gerbers 2nd Baby Food, in the chicken or turkey flavors. If you take your cat to your veterinarian, ask them what diet they recommend if your cat is not eating well.
- Try placing one or two bites of food in the cat’s mouth, like you are giving her a pill. Sometimes a taste of food or the action of swallowing food will “jump start” a finicky cat, and she will then eat on her own afterward.
- Try plain chicken broth; it has few calories but will encourage fluid intake and may also help the appetite.
If your cat refuses any food for 36 hours or more or shows any rapid or significant worsening of signs, especially dehydration, see your veterinarian immediately.
Remember that URI is very similar to colds in people. Some cats may look and feel worse than others do, but nearly all cats recover within a couple of weeks. With good nursing care and a little TLC, your new cat will be feeling better quickly.