Home Remedies for Cat URIs

A common ailment among many cats is the common cold, also known as an upper respiratory infection. A cat URI displays very similar symptoms to those found in humans, including coughing and sneezing, according to VetInfo.com. Symptoms usually run their course in a few days, and provided they do not worsen, you may be able to handle the care of your cat at home.

  1. Clear Any Discharge

    • Your cat may experience some discharge from its nose or mouth. If not cleared, this may dry and irritate your cat's skin or encourage further infection. Use a soft damp towel to gently wipe away any discharge from your cat's face.

    Use a Humidifier

    • Nasal and chest congestion is another common symptom of feline URIs, which makes it difficult for your cat to breathe. Adding moisture to the room by running a humidifier, or steaming the bathroom with a hot shower, can help open the airways and let your cat breathe easier.

    Encourage Eating

    • Keeping your cat on a regular meal schedule will help it get the nutrients and strength its immune system needs to fight the infection. Unfortunately, if your cat has a stuffy nose, it may not have much of an appetite. Encourage eating with some tuna or moist cat food, slightly warmed in the microwave.

    Know When to See A Veterinarian

    • Home remedies can be helpful if symptoms are mild and the infection hasn't progressed too far. But if your cat doesn't respond to your help, take it to the veterinarian for some prescription medications or antibiotics. Sometimes what appears to be a simple URI is actually something more serious, and your veterinarian can make that distinction before your cat gets too sick.