In this article
Can our Feline Friends get Colds?
Well, yes and no. Cats can indeed get the sniffles, but not the same kind that we get when we catch a cold. What we often call a “cold” in cats is actually an upper respiratory infection (URI), usually caused by feline-specific viruses or bacteria. These infections affect a cat’s nose, throat, and sinuses, and cause symptoms similar to the common cold in people.
Symptoms Your Cat May Have a Cold
If your cat has a cold, you might notice:
- Sneezing
- Runny nose or nasal congestion
- Coughing
- Oral sores
- Watery or red eyes
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy or tiredness
- Slight fever
Can Cats Catch a Cold from Humans?
Well, yes and no. Cats can indeed get the sniffles, but not the same kind that we get when we catch a cold. What we often call a “cold” in cats is actually an upper respiratory infection (URI), usually caused by feline-specific viruses or bacteria. These infections affect a cat’s nose, throat, and sinuses, and cause symptoms similar to the common cold in people.
The pathogens that cause the cold in cats spread through sneezing, grooming, or sharing food and water bowls. If one of your cats has the sniffles, it’s best to separate them from your other cats.
What Causes Colds in Cats?
In cats, an estimated 90 % of “sniffle” cases are caused by one of two viruses. The culprits are:
- Feline Herpesvirus (FHV-1).
This virus is highly contagious among cats and therefore also relatively common. It will stay present in your feline friend’s body for the rest of their life, though the symptoms it causes are often manageable. - Feline Calicivirus (FCV)
The feline Calicivirus is another highly contagious virus that besides more typical symptoms of a cold can also cause ulcers in the mouth.
Luckily, vaccines are available for both viruses, and as these are so-called core vaccinations, your cat will likely have received them when you took them to the vet for their first checkup. While the vaccines may not prevent infection, they can help reduce the symptoms and prevent them from evolving into serious disease.
How to Help a Cat with a Cold
Most cat colds clear up in 7–10 days. You can help your cat feel better with simple home care:
- Keep them warm and indoors
- Use a humidifier or let them rest in a steamy bathroom to ease congestion
- Wipe their eyes and nose with a damp, soft cloth
- Make sure they eat and drink
- Keep litter boxes clean and easy to access
- Reduce your cat’s stress while they recover
- If your cat isn’t improving after a few days or stops eating, it’s time to see a veterinarian
Luckily, vaccines are available for both viruses, and as these are so-called core vaccinations, your cat will likely have received them when you took them to the vet for their first checkup. While the vaccines may not prevent infection, they can help reduce the symptoms and prevent them from evolving into serious disease.
When to See a Vet
Seek veterinary care if your cat:
- Has trouble breathing or wheezing
- Stops eating or drinking for more than 24 hours
- Has thick yellow or green discharge from nose or eyes
- Is very lethargic or hiding
- Is a kitten, a senior cat, or has other health issues
