Can Cats Catch Colds?

What Is Feline Upper Respiratory Disease?

Cats experience their own version of the common cold — called feline upper respiratory disease — caused by the feline herpesvirus and feline calicivirus. Symptoms typically last 7–10 days and are often spread through wet sneezes or from mother to kitten. Cats with weakened immune systems are most vulnerable.

Because it's a virus, feline upper respiratory disease never fully leaves your cat's body — symptoms can recur or worsen if not treated properly. Left untreated, it can spread to the lungs (causing pneumonia) or cause painful ulcers on the cornea or in the mouth.

Symptoms

If you suspect your cat has a cold, watch for:

• Excessive sneezing
• Congestion and/or open-mouth breathing
• Coughing
• Fever
• Loss of appetite
• Dehydration
• Depression and lethargy
• Discharge from the eyes and nose
• Ulcers on the eyes, nose, or in the mouth

If your cat shows any of these symptoms, schedule a vet appointment right away. Early treatment speeds recovery, reduces the risk of spreading to other cats, and helps prevent recurrence.

Prevention

Vaccines

A four-in-one vaccine is available to protect against upper respiratory infections and distemper. Keep your cat up to date on all vaccines and boosters — especially important for newly adopted kittens. See our guide on getting a new kitten for a full first-vet-visit checklist.

Reduce Transmission

The virus spreads not just through sneezes but also via infected surfaces — clothing, bedding, food bowls, and hands. If you have multiple cats, wash bedding and disinfect surfaces regularly. Practice good hygiene: wash your hands after handling or grooming your cats. Treat it like the flu — be hyperaware of germs. Keep food and water bowls clean with supplies from our pet feeding collection.

Treatment

See Your Vet

Your vet may prescribe antibiotics to prevent secondary bacterial infections, eye ointments, antiviral medications, or fluid therapy if your cat is dehydrated or feverish. Use all medications exactly as prescribed.

At-Home Care

Nursing a sick cat looks a lot like caring for a sick person. Clear discharge from their eyes and nose, run a humidifier to keep moisture in the air, and make sure they have a quiet, comfortable place to rest. Browse our cat beds collection for cozy recovery spots.

A sick cat may not eat normally — you may need to encourage or assist feeding to keep them hydrated and nourished. With love and care, most cats start feeling better within about a week.