Cat Flu, also known as Feline Upper Respiratory Infection (URI), is a very common illness in cats, especially in kittens and shelter cats. It is similar to the flu in humans and is usually caused by a combination of viruses and bacteria. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatments is important for keeping your cat healthy.
✅ What is Cat Flu?
Cat Flu is an infectious disease that affects the upper respiratory system of cats. It can spread quickly among cats through sneezing, coughing, saliva, food bowls, and even human hands or clothing.
🐾 Causes of Cat Flu
The most common causes are viruses, sometimes complicated by bacterial infections:
Feline Herpesvirus (FHV-1) – causes eye and nose infections.
Feline Calicivirus (FCV) – causes mouth ulcers and respiratory problems.
Chlamydophila felis – mainly causes eye infections.
Bordetella bronchiseptica – causes coughing and severe respiratory issues.
🔍 How Do Cats Get Flu?
Cats usually catch flu through:
Direct contact with infected cats.
Sneezing or coughing droplets.
Sharing food/water bowls or litter trays.
Contact with contaminated human clothing or hands.
⚠️ Symptoms of Cat Flu
Some common signs include:
Sneezing and nasal discharge
Watery or pus-filled eyes
Loss of appetite
Mouth ulcers and drooling
Fever and lethargy
Difficulty breathing or coughing
Kittens, elderly cats, and cats with weak immunity are at higher risk.
🩺 Treatment for Cat Flu
There is no instant cure for cat flu, but supportive treatment and medication help cats recover:
Antibiotics – to control secondary bacterial infections (e.g., doxycycline, amoxicillin).
Antiviral drugs – for severe herpesvirus cases (e.g., famciclovir).
Eye drops or ointments – for eye infections.
Nasal decongestants/steam therapy – to ease breathing.
Fluid therapy & nutrition support – if the cat refuses food or water.
Immune boosters – such as L-lysine supplements.
⚠️ Never give human medicines to cats without a vet’s prescription.
🛡️ Prevention of Cat Flu
Vaccination – core vaccines (FHV-1 & FCV) protect cats from severe infection.
Good hygiene – wash hands, clean bowls, and keep litter trays disinfected.
Reduce stress – stress weakens immunity and increases risk.
Isolate infected cats – to prevent spreading to others.
📌 Final Thoughts
Cat Flu is a serious but manageable illness in cats. With proper care, vaccination, and timely veterinary treatment, most cats recover fully. Early detection and prevention are the best ways to protect your feline friend from this common disease.
