There are some cat remedies for colds that are only available as prescription drugs. These medicines have to be used according to the vet's instructions, as they can cause severe side effects if they're wrongly administered. The symptoms of colds in cats are similar to the symptoms of colds exhibited by humans. While some types of colds pass off on their own, others are more severe in nature and only subside with medications.
Feline Respiratory Infections
Colds are upper respiratory infections that are usually caused by a virus. Some of these viruses include the herpes virus, calicivirus, bordetella and chlamydophila. While most infections last for around 10 days, cats infected by a more aggressive strain of virus take longer to recover.
Even though many respiratory infections can be controlled with antibiotics, pets may become carriers of these infections for life. They could also release infectious agents in the environment when they're stressed or ill in the future.
Treatment of Feline Respiratory Infections
The main aim of the treatment is to kill any viral agents that are present in the body and reduce the discomfort experienced by the cat. Although viruses can't be killed with most antibiotic medications, this is the most common treatment option used. Since some pets develop secondary bacterial infections after contracting viruses, the antibiotics work effectively to treat pets suffering from colds.
Instead of administering any over the counter drugs to treat cold and flu in pets, conduct a vet check to identify the viral infection the cat is suffering from and administer prescription drugs by following the vet's instructions. The most common antibiotic that's prescribed to cats suffering from respiratory infections is tetracycline.
Commonly Prescribed Drugs Include:
- Doxycycline
- Amoxicillin
- Tetracycline
- Ciprofloxacin
- Cephalexin
Precautions
Before administering antibiotics to your cat, inform the vet about ingredients that your pet is allergic to. Some medicines may have to be given along with food while others will have to be given according to specific instructions. You should read and follow all the instructions listed on the package so that the medication benefits the pet and doesn't cause any adverse reactions.
Some cats will develop a few side effects that will pass off once the medication is discontinued. Since antibiotics are generally prescribed as a course, avoid suddenly discontinuing any drug without first discussing it with the vet.
Tips for Pet Owners
Along with medication there are several other things you can do for a cat if he is suffering from a cold. Keep him in a warm and comfortable environment, away from pets and children. Also make sure that your cat drinks plenty of water and consumes food. If the pet lacks appetite, warm up the meal before putting it before him.
If the cat is coughing due to the accumulation of phlegm, you may have to administer expectorants or use a bronchodilator to help the pet.
In order to prevent the transmission of the infection from one animal to the other, you should confine the sick pet to one room and disinfect the home thoroughly once the pet is back to normal.