The symptoms of an upper respiratory infection in cats and dogs very closely resemble the experience you would have with a common cold -- sniffling, sneezing, and snot. With kennel cough, which is one of the most common upper respiratory infections for canines, a persistent dry cough is a noticeable identifier of the URI.
Major Symptoms
You may notice your pet sneezing and having discharge from her eyes, nose, and throat. Snot can be clear, white, yellow, or green, often depending on the particular stage of the infection, or the virus or bacteria causing the URI. Cats with an upper respiratory infection also may have a loss of appetite and difficulty breathing due to congestion. A fever may also be present, and drooling is common due to difficulty swallowing.
Dogs experience these same symptoms – discharge from the nose and eyes, sneezing, and trouble breathing. However, the most common upper respiratory infection for dogs is kennel cough, characterized by a dry, rough cough. This noise from kennel cough is startling, and the cough is not a productive one, meaning it’s not expelling an irritant. It occurs frequently and over a long period of time.
In general, veterinarians do not make much of an effort to identify the particular bacteria or virus causing a pet's upper respiratory infection. The treatment does not tend to vary based on the exact cause of the symptoms. There are a few symptoms that are likely to be tied to specific causes for feline upper respiratory infections.
- Feline Herpes Virus: This virus tends to lead to mouth ulcers in cats.
- Feline Calicivirus: Like herpes, calici virus leads to mouth ulcers. It can also cause cats to become lame.
- Feline Chlamydia: It is very common for cats with this bacteria to experience eye-related issues, such as discharge and conjunctivitis, as well as sneezing.
- Bordetella: This leads to basic symptoms like a runny nose, sneezing, and fever. In dogs, this bacteria is associated with kennel cough.
- Mycoplasma Bacteria: Like feline Chlamydia, this bacteria tends to be associated with eye problems, like discharge.
When Will Symptoms Develop?
Regardless of the bacteria or virus causing your pet's illness, the symptoms will tend to take a few days after contact to develop. Generally, the upper respiratory infection will pass within ten days to two weeks, although kennel cough lingers longer, for up to a month.
Take your pet to the veterinarian if symptoms persist for 2-3 days, just to be sure to get the correct diagnosis. For older dogs, puppies, kittens, and any other pet with a weakened immune system, pneumonia can sometimes develop.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you treat an upper respiratory infection in a dog?
The nose, throat, and trachea are all impacted by an upper respiratory infection (URI) in dogs, which is typically brought on by a viral or bacterial illness. Both supportive care and addressing the underlying cause are part of the treatment for canine URI. If the ailment is bacterial or viral, the veterinarian may first advise using an antibiotic like Doxycycline. Additionally, they could suggest drugs to treat symptoms, including coughing, sneezing, and nasal discharge. It is also vital to ensure that the dog is well-hydrated and receives proper nutrition. Providing a comfortable and warm environment for the dog can also help to facilitate recovery. It is important to monitor the dog closely and follow up with the veterinarian if the condition worsens or if new symptoms come up.
What are the signs of upper respiratory infection in dogs?
Upper respiratory infections (URIs) in dogs are typically caused by viral or bacterial infections that affect the nasal passages, throat, and trachea. Sneezing, coughing, nasal discharge (clear, yellow, or green), watery eyes, fever, lethargy, decreased appetite, and breathing difficulties are some of the symptoms of a canine upper respiratory infection (URI). Additionally, some dogs may have mouth or tongue ulcers, and others may have diminished senses of taste or smell. In severe situations, airway edema and inflammation may make it difficult for dogs to breathe. It is crucial to remember that similar symptoms might appear in other respiratory disorders as well, necessitating a proper diagnosis by a veterinarian in order to ascertain the underlying cause and the most suitable course of action.
How long can a dog live with an upper respiratory infection?
The duration of an upper respiratory infection (URI) in dogs varies depending on the extent of the infection and the root cause of it. A URI will often go away with the right care and treatment in 5 to 10 days. The healing process might take longer, though, if the infection is serious or the dog has an underlying illness that weakens its immune system. When dogs are exposed to environmental conditions or have a chronic illness that affects their respiratory health, they may occasionally get recurrent upper respiratory infections (URIs). If you think your dog could have a URI, it's critical to get them medical attention right away to stop the illness from worsening and leading to other complications. Untreated or poorly managed URIs can lead to secondary infections, pneumonia, and other respiratory issues that can significantly impact a dog's health and lifespan. Periodic veterinary check-ups and preventative measures, such as vaccinations and good hygiene practices, can also aid in preventing future URI episodes and promote overall respiratory health in dogs.
Do cat upper respiratory infections go away on their own?
With supportive care and enough time, certain minor upper respiratory infections in cats can go away on their own, especially if the cat is still eating, active, and in good health. However, untreated or improperly handled URIs can cause secondary infections and other complications, so it's crucial to keep a close eye on the cat's symptoms and watch for any signs of worsening. It is crucial to seek veterinary attention as soon as you can in order to identify the underlying reason and the best course of action if the cat's symptoms develop or continue to persist. The veterinarian may recommend prescription medications, such as antibiotics or antivirals, to help treat the infection and relieve symptoms. In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary to provide more intensive care and support.
What antibiotics treat URTI in cats?
Viruses typically cause upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) in cats, but secondary bacterial infections may also be present. Antibiotics may be prescribed to treat bacterial infections or to prevent secondary bacterial infections from developing. The choice of antibiotic will depend on the type of bacteria involved and the severity of the infection. Common antibiotics used to treat URTIs in cats include Amoxicillin, Clavulanate, Doxycycline, Enrofloxacin, and Azithromycin. These antibiotics work by targeting and killing the bacteria responsible for the infection. It is important to note that antibiotics should only be used under the guidance of a veterinarian and should be given as prescribed to ensure proper dosing and to prevent the development of antibiotic resistance. Additionally, you should follow all recommended treatment protocols, including completing the full course of antibiotics, to ensure the infection is fully resolved and to prevent the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
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This information is for informational purposes only and is not meant as a substitute for the professional advice of, or diagnosis or treatment by, your veterinarian with respect to your pet. It has, however, been verified by a licensed veterinarian for accuracy.