In cats, the phrase "Upper Respiratory Infection" (or kitty cold) means that the cat has an infection that can occur in the sinuses, nasal passage, mouth and upper trachea (windpipe). Upper respiratory infections (URI) in cats are highly contagious amongst cats, and are spread through direct contact, sneezing, infected environments, water and food bowls. These infections are usually viruses, but can also be bacterial. Sometimes a virus weakens the immune system, so a bacterial infection can take over after the virus does. Not all cats exposed to the infections get an URI, but those that do usually get signs of the infection between 1-14 days after exposure.

Clinical signs of an URI can include:

• sneezing
• coughing
• weakness or depression
• not eating
• nasal discharge
• high temperatures (fever)
• mouth lesions or ulcers
• watery or goopy eyes
• congestion

Most cats with an URI do not need antibiotics because the cause is usually a virus. If we prescribe antibiotics, it is because we suspect a primary or secondary bacterial component to the infection, or we are worried about other factors.

Treating URI usually involves supportive care. Some cats get only minor versions of the URI, and simply need to be watched for signs of worsening. Other cats need more care. Some ways you can help your cat at home are listed below.

• Keep your cat indoors only during the recovery period.
• Ensure food and water intake. Many cats that cannot smell do not eat. This can be quite serious.
• Treat the infection with medication if we prescribe any.
• Increase humidity by bringing your cat into a steam filled bathroom for 10 minutes twice a day, or using a vaporizer or humidifier.
• Keep the cat's nose and eyes clean with a warm wet washcloth.
• Never give your cat any human medications unless we prescribe them. (Some human medications, even the baby versions, can cause death in cats.)

Please call immediately if your cat is showing severe signs (such as open mouth breathing, not eating, loss of appetite, extreme weakness or high fever). They will need more than at home care.

Most cats get over the signs of the URI in around 7-14 days, but many will have occasional mild flare-ups because the virus does not ever go away completely. Vaccines (FVRCP) can help prevent or lessen the severity of this common kitty problem, so make sure your feline friends are up to date on their vaccines!