Upper Respiratory Infection in Cats

Overview and Facts

What is

• Upper Respiratory Infection in Cats
Upper respiratory infection in cats affects the upper airways which also includes the mouth, nose, sinuses, and in some cases the eyes. These types of infections are highly contagious, and they are caused by a variety of viruses.

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Causes

• Causes of Upper Respiratory Infection
Upper respiratory infections in cats are mainly caused by two viruses: the feline viral rhinotracheitis(or feline herpes virus) and the feline calicivirus. While these viruses are highly contagious, only cats in certain conditions seem to be more at risk for developing these types of infections.

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Symptoms and Types

Symptoms

• Symptoms of Upper Respiratory Infection
The symptoms of upper respiratory infection in cats depend on which virus caused the infection to develop. In cases where secondary bacterial infections develop, the symptoms often become much more severe.

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Diagnosis and Tests

Diagnosis

• Diagnosing Upper Respiratory Infection in Cats
There is no one test available for upper respiratory infection in cats, and so a diagnosis is most often based upon the cat’s symptoms and history. In some cases, additional tests may be performed to ensure that the cat does not have an underlying medical condition that could be contributing to the symptoms.

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Treatment and Care

Treatment

• Treating Upper Respiratory Infections in Cats
As most upper respiratory infections in cats are caused by viruses, antibiotic treatments have no effect on these types of infections. Instead, cats are given supportive therapies until the virus runs its course

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