Treatment for a Cat With Cold Symptoms

Cats, like humans, are susceptible to the common cold. Feline cold symptoms are similar to those in their human owners, and treatment consists of antibiotics. Generally, cat colds will run their course without incident.

  1. Feline Cold Symptoms

    • Feline cold symptoms are similar to cold symptoms in humans. Symptoms include a runny nose, sneezing, coughing, eye discharge and a hoarse voice. According to the Mar Vista Animal Medical Center website, cat colds last about seven to 10 days.

    Veterinary Advice

    • If you suspect your cat has a cold, take him to your veterinarian. Be sure to get a professional diagnosis before you treat your pet for any disease, as cold symptoms can sometimes be signs of more serious medical ailments.

    Prescribed Treatment

    • According to the Mar Vista Animal Medical Center website, feline colds are generally treated with antibiotics. Tetracycline antibiotics are usually used to treat colds in cats. Sometimes your vet may prescribe nasal spray in addition to the antibiotics.

    Home Treatment

    • Check with your vet before beginning any home treatment. Cat-health-guide.org suggests several home remedies for feline colds. They include gently cleaning the cat's nose (where nasal discharge is prevalent), moisturizing the cat's nose with a non-toxic Vaseline, and encouraging your cat to maintain a healthy appetite.

    Other Considerations

    • Colds can be spread between animals, so be sure to keep interactions between your sick and healthy pets to a minimum.

      Watch your cat closely while she recovers from the cold. If the cold gets worse instead of better, go back to your veterinarian for a second check-up. Cold symptoms can sometimes mimic those of more serious diseases, like herpes.