Cat flu often causes sneezing in cats, but not all animals show this symptom. The disease primarily affects young kittens, but cats of any age can become infected. Watery or pus-like eye and nasal discharge often accompanies the sneezing, with the eyes sometimes becoming completely crusted shut.

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In severe cases, fever and pneumonia can develop. The causative germs can also affect the gastrointestinal tract, leading to diarrhea. Painful sores on the tongue can occur, causing cats to stop eating and drinking, especially in young kittens, which can lead to dehydration and even death.

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A chronic form of cat flu can develop, especially in cats that were infected as kittens. These cats may suffer from respiratory infections throughout their lives, which can be troublesome for both the cat and the owner.

Treatment

Antibiotics are often recommended because there may be a bacterial component present in cat flu. However, viruses are resistant to antibiotics, and the cats will need to build immunity to the viruses on their own.
 

If the cats stop eating, it is important to ensure they get enough fluids, possibly through an intravenous drip. Forced feeding may also be necessary at times.

Prognosis

In most cases, the cat fully recovers from cat flu with proper treatment.

However, animals that were not treated in time and young kittens may develop the chronic form and continue to struggle with respiratory issues throughout their lives, remaining contagious to other cats.

Prevention

Due to the frequent occurrence of cat flu and the high risk of infection, vaccination against the disease is recommended. Every cat should receive a vaccination against cat flu every year.

It is important to understand that only the most severe pathogens are targeted with the vaccine. Vaccinated cats can still develop a mild form of cat flu.