Feline Respiratory System Illnesses - Flu
Infectious affections of the respiratory system have great importance in cats. We have to pay attention to the feline flu. A feline cold is a generic denomination for diverse affections for the parts of the head, neck and lungs. It is not always possible to distinguish clearly of other banal infections.
In general, the rule can be applied that any case of illness with fever and loss of appetite must be treated by a veterinarian. Domestic care plays in all this a decisive function. The lack of affection, in all its expression, is almost the reason of these affections. This explains the bad therapeutic results in clinics, in spite of receiving the best attentions.
Flu
When a non vaccinated cat, doesn’t matter what age it has, shows typical flu symptoms, it is possible to suspect with a lot of probability the existence of an authentic feline cold. Manifestations correspond to those of a human’s very strong cold. In the evaluation of fever, appetite and general condition, I attribute the maximum importance to last this one. Food rejection is at first a rational action of the organism when there is a disease and it should not be underestimated. It is not necessary to force cats to eat, since it can worsen the situation, especially of liquid or solid food will end up going through the wrong conduit, the trachea. It is important to take the temperature every day; if the temperature rises, it is an indication it is worsening. Always offer them fresh water and milk. Feed them small portions. In any case, it is better for them to stay home (sick cats tend to wander off easily). If the patient does not do anything to get better, which is not a good sign, you will have to intervene helping it with the runny nose and in case of rheum, it has to be cleaned with a soft cloth soaked with chamomile. There can’t be any remains of any scabs. If their breathing is too noisy, it is convenient to give them some nose drops for children, since it is very difficult for them to breath out through the mouth.
The animal’s condition should improve in a progressive way. If you see it is getting worse, don’t hesitate to take it to the veterinarian. A serous secretion is a sign of bacterial infection. In such cases, a physician can help with an antibiotic injection.
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