Can feline upper respiratory infection spread to other cats?

Yes, there is a risk of transmission, especially in multi-cat households or shelters. If infection is suspected, isolate the affected cat and consult your vet for infection control advice.

What can I do at home to help my cat feel more comfortable?

Keep your cat warm, offer easy-to-swallow nutritious food and plenty of water, record breathing sounds for your vet's assessment, and attend follow-up visits as directed.

How often are follow-up visits needed?

The frequency of follow-up depends on the severity of the condition. Mild cases may be monitored over a few days; if there is no improvement or the condition worsens, return sooner. Ask your vet for specific guidance.

Is there any way to prevent feline upper respiratory infections?

Keeping vaccinations up to date, avoiding overcrowded environments, scheduling regular health checks, and maintaining good hygiene can reduce the risk of infection. Consult your vet for personalised advice.

How much do the tests and treatment usually cost?

Costs vary by clinic and region — ask your vet for an estimate before proceeding.

Disease Guide

Feline Upper Respiratory Infection: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Home Care [2025]

Feline upper respiratory infections are mainly caused by herpesvirus and calicivirus. Symptoms include sneezing, nasal discharge, and eye secretions. Supportive care is the mainstay of treatment; antibiotics are needed for secondary bacterial infections.

Take 1 minute to check the symptoms first

Last updated: 2026/01/05

Pethealthmap Editorial Team

Sources: ISFM, WSAVA, National Taiwan University Veterinary Hospital

When to See a Vet

Seek Emergency Care Immediately

•Persistent open-mouth breathing or obvious difficulty breathing
•Significantly blue or pale gums or lips
•Sudden lethargy, unresponsive, or severely decreased alertness

Schedule a Vet Visit Soon (within 24–72 hours)

•Persistent decreased appetite or refusal to eat for more than one day
•Frequent coughing or continuous abnormal breathing sounds
•Noticeably reduced activity and more easily fatigued than usual

01What symptoms indicate something is wrong?

Common symptoms and acute warning signs to help owners recognise when veterinary care is needed.

Reduced appetite or persistent refusal to eat
Noticeable weight loss over a short period
Fever, persistent low-grade fever, or abnormal body temperature
Frequent coughing, sneezing, or unusual sounds from the throat
Rapid breathing, open-mouth breathing, or wheezing
Discharge from the eyes or nose, or conjunctival redness
Seek veterinary attention promptly if symptoms persist or worsen

Seek emergency care immediately if you notice the following symptoms:

⚠️ Severe difficulty breathing or markedly worsened open-mouth breathing
⚠️ Noticeably purple or pale gums or lips
⚠️ Sudden lethargy, inability to be roused, or severely reduced responsiveness

02How to assess your cat at home: key observations and emergency criteria

Key information you can record at home to help your vet quickly assess and monitor your cat's condition.

Record appetite and food intake changes at the same time each day
Weigh your cat weekly or as needed and note the figures
Use a pet thermometer to measure temperature and note the time of measurement
Record a video or audio clip of coughing or breathing sounds for your vet's reference
Monitor exercise tolerance, such as whether walking or jumping has declined
Note mental alertness and differences between sleeping and waking behaviour
If you notice clear deterioration, arrange a vet appointment immediately

03How will the vet make a diagnosis? Common examination procedures

Common procedures performed at the clinic and their purpose, to help you understand the diagnostic process.

Physical examination

auscultation of the lungs, assessment of the nasal passages and oral cavity

X-rays

to evaluate the chest or nasal cavity for imaging abnormalities

Blood tests

to assess systemic inflammation and organ function

Cytology

microscopic examination of discharge or localised cellular changes

Bacterial culture

to identify the causative organism and antibiotic sensitivity when required

CT scan

for more detailed imaging assessment in complex or persistent cases

It is advisable to choose a clinic with imaging capabilities when booking your appointment

04What treatment and care are needed? Medications, dietary adjustments, and home care

General treatment approaches, follow-up visits, and home care essentials to support recovery and monitoring.

Medication or supportive care based on examination findings, with follow-up as required
Oxygen supplementation may be provided if needed to improve breathing
Dietary adjustments and hydration support to ensure adequate nutrition and prevent dehydration
Schedule regular follow-up visits and any re-examinations as directed by your vet
If symptoms do not improve, your vet may refer you to a specialist for further assessment
Home care includes keeping your cat warm and minimising irritants such as smoke or dust

05What to prepare before the vet visit: key information to help your vet quickly identify the cause

Prepare a phone video or audio recording of coughing or breathing sounds

Note when symptoms first appeared and the order in which they developed

Write down specific changes in appetite and water intake

Note exercise tolerance, such as walking or jumping ability

List any medications, vaccines, or supplements used recently

Bring a secure carrier and book your appointment in advance

This content is for reference only and cannot replace a professional veterinary diagnosis. If your pet shows signs of illness, please seek veterinary care promptly.