Home Remedy for a Kitten With a Stuffy Nose

If your kitten has a stuffy nose, she is likely developing an upper respiratory infection. Other symptoms such as runny eyes, nasal discharge and a low-grade fever will likely develop. In adult cats, an upper respirator infection is generally not a serious issue and akin to the common cold in humans. The danger with kittens is that an upper respiratory infection will develop into pneumonia. While you can treat your kitten at home, watch for any signs that the condition is worsening and be prepared to take her to a veterinarian immediately.

  1. Eyes and Nose

    • While your kitten has a stuffy nose, keep his nose clean. Gently wash away any mucus from his nose with a warm washcloth at least a couple times a day. If the kitten̵7;s nose gets cracked or chapped, put a bit of petroleum jelly on the end of it to ease his discomfort. Your kitten may also develop runny eyes. If this occurs, wipe his eyes with a warm washcloth a couple times a day, and keep crusts from forming over his eyes.

    Comfort

    • Just like when you have a cold, your kitten with an upper respiratory infection needs some extra comforts. Provide a cushioned, warm bed in a quiet location. Your kitten will also appreciate extra warmth while she is ailing. Place a heating pad in her bed. The heating pad should be on its lowest setting and covered with the thickness of a towel. The kitten should be able to get off of the heating pad if she gets too warm. You can also place the kitten in a steamy bathroom -- after you̵7;ve run a hot shower -- for 15 to 30 minutes. The humidity may help break up some of the congestion.

    Feeding

    • One of the most important aspects of home care for a kitten with an upper respiratory infection is to keep the kitten eating. When cats can̵7;t smell, they tend to quit eating. Offer the kitten smelly foods -- such as moist cat foods or canned tuna. It may also help to heat the food in the microwave for a few seconds to release its aromas. Your kitten may have developed a sore throat with her upper respiratory infection. In these instances, baby food or chicken broth may be more palatable.

    Symptoms

    • Be alert to the symptoms of upper respiratory infection once you notice your kitten has a stuffy nose. Symptoms include sneezing, runny nose and eyes, cough, ulcers in the nose or mouth, sniffles, fever and hoarseness in the kitten̵7;s voice. Symptoms that indicate you need to take your kitten to a veterinarian immediately are loss of appetite, open-mouth breathing, high fever or extreme listlessness.