The most commonly affected kittens are those that live in shelters, multi-cat households, and stray kittens. When a kitten is noticed to have upper respiratory infection, it is important to nurse it back to health.
Upper Respiratory Infection In Kittens:
- Upper respiratory infection or URI can be viral or bacterial in origin.
- URIs can be transmitted via airborne transmission and is thus highly contagious.
- Cats that have acquired the disease and recover are usually contagious for months even years.
- Carrier cats can look normal but can infect other cats when brought into close contact.
- Some cats that have recovered from URI will occasionally experience flare-ups during stress or illness.
- URIs are not life threatening but prolonged and repeated infection can cause serious health problems.
- Most cats recover with home care. In some cases, hospitalization may be needed.
- Known causative agents of URIs in cats include Herpes, Calicivirus, and Chlamydia.
Symptoms of Upper Respiratory Infection in Kittens:
The most common signs of a common URI may include:
- Runny eyes
- Sneezing
- Presence of nasal discharge
- Decreased appetite
Signs that require hospitalization:
- Appetite loss
- Nasal congestion
- Breathing through the mouth
- Ulcers
- Dehydration
- High fever
- Extreme listlessness
How to Treat Upper Respiratory Infection in Kittens:
For uncomplicated URIs:
- Administer the prescribed antibiotics as ordered by the vet.
- Separate the kitten from other cats.
- Keep the kitten in a drat-free room.
- Clear the eyes and nose of discharge using a moistened cotton ball.
- Regularly expose the kitten in a steamed room, such as shower to help with decongestion or use a room vaporizer.
- Encourage water intake, have clean water readily available for the kitten to drink.
- Encourage eating by offering delectable yet healthy foods.