Upper Respiratory Infection in Cats

A tabby cat, wearing a face mask, lounges on a sofa, humorously highlighting precautions against respiratory diseases in pets.

Understanding Cat Flu and Respiratory Disease

Upper respiratory infections are one of the most common infectious diseases affecting cats. These infections involve the nose, throat, and upper airways and are often referred to as “cat flu.”

Most upper respiratory infections are caused by viruses, particularly feline herpesvirus (FHV-1) and feline calicivirus (FCV). These viruses spread easily between cats through direct contact, respiratory droplets, or contaminated surfaces.

Although many cats recover with supportive care, some infections can become severe, especially in kittens, older cats, or cats with weakened immune systems.

Common Causes of Upper Respiratory Infection

Feline Herpesvirus

Feline herpesvirus is one of the most common causes of respiratory disease in cats.

This virus affects the respiratory tract and can also cause inflammation of the eyes.

Cats infected with herpesvirus may experience recurring flare-ups, especially during periods of stress.

Feline Calicivirus

Feline calicivirus is another major cause of respiratory infections in cats.

In addition to respiratory signs, calicivirus can sometimes cause:

• oral ulcers

• drooling

• difficulty eating

Different strains of the virus may produce varying levels of illness.

Secondary Bacterial Infections

Bacterial infections may develop after the initial viral infection damages the respiratory tissues.

These secondary infections can worsen symptoms and may require veterinary treatment with antibiotics.

Signs of Upper Respiratory Infection in Cats

Cats with respiratory infections may show several symptoms affecting the nose, eyes, and breathing.

Common signs include:

• sneezing

• nasal discharge

• watery or swollen eyes

• coughing

• fever

• lethargy

• reduced appetite

Some cats may also develop mouth ulcers or excessive drooling, particularly with calicivirus infections.

How Respiratory Infections Spread

Upper respiratory infections are highly contagious between cats.

Transmission can occur through:

• direct contact between cats

• sneezing or respiratory droplets

• shared food and water bowls

• contaminated bedding or surfaces

• human hands or clothing after handling infected cats

Because of this, respiratory infections often spread quickly in environments with many cats, such as shelters or multi-cat households.

When Respiratory Infections Become Serious

Most healthy adult cats recover from mild respiratory infections within one to two weeks.

However, veterinary attention is important if your cat shows signs such as:

• difficulty breathing

• refusal to eat

• severe lethargy

• dehydration

• thick nasal discharge

• persistent symptoms lasting more than several days

Kittens are particularly vulnerable and may require prompt treatment.

How Veterinarians Diagnose Respiratory Infections

Diagnosis usually begins with a physical examination and review of symptoms.

In some cases, veterinarians may recommend additional testing such as:

• laboratory tests

• swabs for viral detection

• blood tests

• imaging of the respiratory system

These tests may be helpful in severe or chronic cases.

Treatment for Upper Respiratory Infections

Treatment focuses on supporting the cat while the immune system clears the infection.

Veterinary treatment may include:

• supportive care

• fluid therapy if dehydration occurs

• medications to control fever or inflammation

• antibiotics if secondary bacterial infection develops

• nutritional support if appetite is reduced

Keeping the nose and eyes clean and ensuring the cat remains hydrated can help support recovery.

Preventing Respiratory Infections

Vaccination is one of the most important ways to reduce the risk of severe respiratory infections in cats.

Core feline vaccines commonly protect against:

• feline herpesvirus

• feline calicivirus

While vaccination does not always prevent infection entirely, it can significantly reduce the severity of disease.

Maintaining good hygiene and avoiding contact with infected cats can also help prevent transmission.

Cat Respiratory Care in Kalamunda

If your cat is sneezing, has nasal discharge, or seems lethargic, the team at Hilltop Veterinary Hospital in Kalamunda can examine your cat and determine whether a respiratory infection or another condition may be present.

Early veterinary care can help prevent complications and support a faster recovery.

Concerned About Your Cat’s Breathing or Sneezing?

If your cat shows signs of respiratory illness, book a consultation with Hilltop Veterinary Hospital so our veterinary team can evaluate your cat and recommend the appropriate treatment.

Explore More Pet Health Advice

For more veterinary advice on common feline illnesses, explore our Pet Health Advice library.

You can also browse our Cat Health Care articles to learn more about appetite loss, urinary problems, and other health conditions affecting cats.

The information provided in this article is intended for educational purposes only and should not replace professional veterinary advice. Every cat’s medical situation is unique. If your cat shows signs of respiratory illness or other health problems, consult your veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.