Upper Respiratory Infections In Cats

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Your cat can contract a respiratory infection just like humans can. Viruses are the most common cause of upper respiratory infections (URI) in cats. They can be transmitted from cat to cat in the form of coughing, sneezing, sharing food or water bowls and even grooming.

Unfortunately, along with the URI, they may often develop a second bacterial infection as well.

Symptoms of upper respiratory infections include coughing sneezing, open-mouth breathing, fever, runny nose, gagging, possible drooling, decreased appetite, sluggishness or depression, among others. If you suspect an upper respiratory infection, see your vet immediately. If left untreated, this infection may cause pneumonia among other serious complications that may further develop.

To help prevent this infection altogether, keep your cat indoors, minimize anxiety and stress and keep your cat's immune system healthy and strong with a nutritious diet.

Reported By Nan Talleno, KYW Newsradio