Introduction
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.
Treating URI in Cats
Supportive Treatments
Supportive treatments for upper respiratory infections in cats include keeping the cat in a confined, stress free, and comfortable atmosphere. The cat should be in a room that has a comfortable temperature, and in some cases a humidifier is recommended to help keep the cat’s nasal passages from drying out. Plenty of fresh water should be offered in addition to regular food with nutritional supplements. If the cat is not eating, then the owner may need to force feed the cat regular food or high caloric supplements. The cat’s eyes and nose should also be routinely cleaned if the cat is experiencing eye or nose discharge.
Preventative Measures
To prevent the spread of feline upper respiratory infection in multi-cat households, pet owners should also be sure to wash their hands with a regular disinfectant after they come into contact with their infected cat. Pet owners should also be aware that clothes and shoes can carry upper respiratory infection viruses for a short time.
Treating Secondary Infections
In cases where secondary bacterial infections develop when a cat is ill with a viral upper respiratory infection, antibiotics can help to fight these secondary bacterial infections. It is especially important to begin antibiotic treatment early in this case, as bacterial infections can progress rapidly when a cat’s immune system is already fighting an upper respiratory infection.
In some cases a cat or kitten may require hospitalization in order to overcome an upper respiratory infection. Cats or kittens that experience excessive lethargy, lack of appetite, dehydration, and high fever will need therapies which include: subcutaneous or intravenous fluids, intravenous nutritional support, and fever control. Medications such as oral lysine supplements and immune stimulants, such as interferon-alpha, have been shown to help shorten the durations of some viral upper respiratory infections.