Relief of Cold & Congestion in Cats

While cats cannot catch the same virus that causes human colds, they can catch different types of respiratory illnesses that seem like a cold. Symptoms of these illnesses present themselves anywhere between two days and two weeks after the cat is exposed to the virus. The ̶0;cold̶1; usually begins with sneezing and progresses to conjunctivitis, eye and nasal discharge, and in severe cases even mouth breathing. According to writers at the website www.cat-health-guide.org, the illness can last up to four weeks, depending on the virus that caused it.

  1. Treatment Through Medication

    • Veterinarian-prescribed antibiotics are often used to treat cold symptoms in a cat. While antibiotics have no effect on a viral infection, your cat̵7;s illness is probably accompanied by a slight bacterial infection as well, which is what the antibiotics will treat. Antibiotics can be administered via injection or given orally. If your cat̵7;s illness is caused by a fungal infection (considered very rare), antifungal medications are administered. Finally, antihistamines are useful for treatment of cat colds. Never give your cat any medication without first consulting your veterinarian.

    Congestion Treatments

    • Vaporizers are very helpful in helping humans deal with congestion, and they are equally useful for cats. Simply close off a small room for your cat, like a bathroom or bedroom, and run a cool steam vaporizer in the room. Make your cat a comfortable bed and provide him with food, water, litter box, etc. Allow the vaporizer to work its magic on his breathing. Also, a little Vick̵7;s Vapor Rub (a very small amount) on the tip of your cat̵7;s nose will open up his nasal passages and allow him to breathe more freely. Note: cats do not usually like vapor rub, so proceed with caution. You may also be able to use children̵7;s strength nose drops (such as Afrin) to help nasal congestion. Ask your veterinarian which treatment would be best for your cat.

    Treatment At Home

    • Medications work wonders toward getting your cat on the mend, but they are only part of the process. Make sure the cat stays warm and comfortable. Treat any secondary symptoms of the illness (diarrhea, etc.). Ask your veterinarian if you should place your cat on a special diet until he recovers, and be sure that your cat eats and drinks regularly. Foods with strong smells such as tuna fish are a great way to get a cat with a stuffy nose to eat. Finally disinfect your cat̵7;s environment regularly. Wash his dishes and bedding to prevent further spreading of the illness and to speed his recovery.