How Long Is a Cat With an Upper Respiratory Infection Contagious Once Being Treated?

Upper respiratory infections are a common problem in cats that can lead to more serious illnesses such as pneumonia, sinus infections and conjunctivitis. Though most feline respiratory infections do not require treatment, you should nonetheless monitor your cat closely for worsening symptoms. Because a cat may be contagious for some time after treatment is begun, you may wish to isolate it from other cats in the household.

  1. Feline Upper Respiratory Infections

    • A variety of viruses are involved in common feline respiratory infections, including herpes virus, calicivirus, Chlamydophila felis and Bordetella bronchiseptica, according to Wendy C. Brooks, DVM, of the VeterinaryPartner website.

      The common upper respiratory infection lasts from seven to 10 days without treatment. Watch any cat with sneezing, discharge from the eyes, congestion or difficulty breathing carefully for worsening symptoms. If the cat becomes lethargic or feverish, refuses to eat or has squinting, blurry eyes, consult your veterinarian for treatment.

    Period of Contagion

    • The incubation period for feline upper respiratory infections lasts from two weeks before symptoms occur to up to three weeks afterward, according to Dawn Ruben, DVM, of the MyPetED website. The contagion can continue even though the cat is receiving medications to treat secondary infections. It is a good idea to keep tiny kittens or older debilitated cats in a separate area of the home to prevent the dangers of infection from the affected cat.

    Treatment of Upper Respiratory Infections

    • Though most agents for upper respiratory infection are viral in nature, antibiotics are often given to treat or prevent subsequent bacterial secondary infections. This treatment can be particularly helpful for small kittens, which can easily succumb to pneumonia infections. Nasal drops help with congestion. Nutritional supplements can help a cat̵7;s immune system to fight off illness if his appetite diminishes. Keep fresh water on hand to prevent dehydration.

    Keeping Cats Safe From Upper Respiratory Infections

    • If one of several cats in your household has an upper respiratory infection, keep it in a separate room of the house from the others, preventing the sharing of food and water bowls, toys, bedding and other objects that can carry the viruses that cause infection. Vaccines are available to help prevent upper respiratory infections in cats that have recurring infections. These vaccines are available in nasal spray form and in injectable form. Some cats that have a predisposition to respiratory infection, such as Persian cats with flattened facial characteristics, benefit from these vaccines to prevent recurring upper respiratory infections. Consult with your veterinarian about the best type of vaccine for your cat.