As the seasons change, many of us get a common case of the sniffles. Blocked noses, sore throats, and a general bogged down feeling takes over the UK as the colder months start to emerge. But, can cats get colds too? Do our furry friends react the same way as we do to these temperature changes?
In this article, we’re going to tell you whether or not it’s possible for your cat to get a cold. We’ll also highlight some of the symptoms to look out for if you think your cat may be getting sick as well as some tips on how to nurse them back to health.
So, Can Cats Get Colds?
While there are hundreds of articles online addressing the question can cats get colds, a lot of them are actually mistaken. Cats cannot catch a common cold. That said, there is such a thing as cat flu. Also referred to as feline viral upper respiratory disease, cat flu has similar symptoms to the common cold but these two viruses aren’t quite the same.
Signs and Symptoms Your Cat May Be Sick
A sneezing cat is not unusual but it could be a cause for concern if you also notice the following additional symptoms:
- Runny or congested nose
- Thick yellow discharge from the nose or eyes
- Fever
- Drooling
- Red or watery eyes
- A lack of energy and mobility
- Loss of appetite
- Dehydration
So, while a cat sneezing doesn’t automatically mean that they have a virus, you should take extra precaution if your purring partner shows any of the signs mentioned above as they may need a quick trip to the vets.
Treating Your Furry Friend
Oftentimes, cat flu cures itself after a few days of rest. The key with mild infections is to keep them comfortable, hydrated, and fed. However, if your cat experiences a more severe infection, they may need medication depending on their symptoms.
Regardless of the severity of their infection, it’s important that you take your cat to the vet for a check-up. They will examine your cat and, based on his or her condition, will give you a full treatment plan to follow so that your furry friend is bounding around your home in no time.
What About Covid-19?
With the recent pandemic hitting the world by storm, it makes complete sense for people to be wondering how their pets will be affected. Well, coronavirus in cats is possible. That’s right, cats can be infected with SARS-CoV-2, which leads to COVID-19. Based on recent research, the signs of illness in cats include respiratory and gastrointestinal issues.
So far, there is no evidence that your cat can transmit the disease to you. Better yet, the symptoms in cats seem to be very mild compared to those witnessed in humans. Whatever your circumstances, it’s always better to be safe than sorry which is why you should keep your cat indoors during the outbreak.
How Long Does Coronavirus Last in Cats?
So, how long does coronavirus last in cats? Good question! Researchers are still testing a variety of theories when it comes to coronavirus in cats. So far, it’s thought that coronavirus in cats is similar to with humans but on a much milder level.
With this in mind, keep an eye out for any physical or behavioural symptoms and take your cat to the vet’s if you notice anything out of the ordinary.
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