In autumn and winter even your cat can catch a cold! In fact, just like us humans, cats can catch colds and sneeze due to low temperatures and pathogens.
If your cat has a cold, don’t be alarmed, but pay attention to the development of its symptoms and read this article for the best tips on how to look after and care for it in these situations.
A cold in cats
A cold in cats usually presents very mild symptoms and does not immediately cause concern. However, it is an infection that should be monitored, especially if your cat is elderly, a kitten or already has other health problems.
Colds in cats can be caused by bacteria or viral diseases, but also by situations of great stress or sudden major changes. If your cat is in an anxious state, its immune system will most probably be weaker and will make it more likely to fall ill.
Cold symptoms in cats
How can I tell if my cat has a cold? Feline cold symptoms are often easily recognisable because they are similar to those of us humans.
So if you notice that your cat has any of the symptoms listed below, it is very likely that it has contracted the infection: sneezing, congestion and a red nose, lacrimation, rhinorrhoea, lack of appetite, tiredness, coughing, swollen lymph nodes and fever.
How to treat a cold in cats
When you realise that your cat has a cold, the first thing to do is to try to keep him as warm as possible and get him a comfortable bed to help him sleep and relax. You can, for example, opt for comfortable beds such as Coccolo Microfleece, Queen, Cuddly or Etoile. These beds all have a very soft padding that will ensure your cat’s comfort and warmth.
Try to clean your cat’s nostrils and eyes often using a damp cloth or a moistened wipe such as Genico Fresh. This will not only clean your kitten’s nostrils and eyes, but will also help him regain some relief.
Blocked airways will also prevent your cat from smelling food, often leading to episodes of inappetence. Always ensure that your cat eats and drinks regularly and help by warming up the food to make it more inviting and enhance its taste.
Finally, if you notice that the situation is not improving, contact your vet immediately for a consultation. It is also strongly discouraged to give your cat medication without first getting the go-ahead from your doctor.
A cold in cats is usually a mild and temporary infection, but not to be underestimated! Keep these valuable lessons in mind and help your kitten get well soon!