At this time of year, it’s common to feel under the weather, and cases of the sniffles are rife! While you are dosing up on vitamin C, or spending a day at home under the duvet to shake off your cold, don’t forget that your kitty could also pick up an illness. Despite the availability of vaccines, cat flu can still be a risk for your furry friend - in particular for young or old felines and those on certain medication - and can be very unpleasant for them. Check with your vet to see if your cat is more susceptible and read our guide to symptoms and treatment below.
Symptoms
Get clued up on the signs of cat flu so you can act quickly. Pay a trip to the vets if you notice any of these symptoms.
- Coughing
- Sneezing
- Runny nose and eyes
- Dribbling
- Quiet and subdued behaviour
- Loss of appetite
- High temperature
- Loss of voice
- Ulcers in the mouth
Treatment
Your vet may give you a prescription to help your cat, but it’s also important to nurse your kitty at home so they don’t pass on the illness to other four-legged friends. To give them the best chance of getting better, make sure you follow our guide below.
- Keep your kitty warm, quiet and comfortable with easy access to food, water and a litter tray.
- Keep stress to a minimum by creating space between other pets and noisy children.
- Wipe runny eyes and noses gently with a damp piece of cotton wool.
- If your kitty has a blocked nose, you can help by placing them in a steamy bathroom to help their airways.
- If they’re off their food, try giving your kitty Harringtons Rich in Duck & Chicken little and often, so they’re not over faced.
- Leave lots of fresh, cold water out around the home.
- For more advice, visit Cats Protection at http://www.cats.org.uk/
Has your kitty ever had flu? Let us know on the Harringtons Facebook page
