Feline Upper Respiratory Disease is among the most common infectious disease seen in cats. Common clinical signs include watery eyes and sneezing that progresses to thick yellow or green eye and nose discharge, sneezing, coughing, fever, loss of appetite, ulcers on the eye and in the mouth and throat, dehydration, and sometimes death. Most commonly seen in young kittens this disease complex can affect older cats as well in particular those with a recent exposure to a kitten or stray cat. This disease complex is caused by several viral and bacterial agents. Most often it begins as a viral infection with secondary bacterial invaders quickly coming on board. In kittens, the disease has a very quick and apparent progression with obvious clinical signs in particular eye and nose discharge and eye ulcerations. Older cats tend to have a less apparent and more insidious disease with loss of appetite and dehydration the most common clinical signs. Early stages in either age group are readily treated with nursing care and antibiotics. More advanced cases require hospitalization with fluid and injectable antibiotic therapy.

Kitten vaccinations and adult boosters will protect against the major causes of upper respiratory disease. Thus, it is very important to obtain kitten vaccinations as well as regularly booster adult cats. In addition, any adult cat that has come into contact with a kitten or strange older cat (especially if strays) should be closely monitored for changes in appetite, energy level, and water intake. If any significant changes occur, veterinary care should be sought as soon as possible. Kittens with watery eyes and nose especially if sneezing should also be taken to a veterinarian as soon as possible.

For more information, please contact your veterinarian or email me..