November 15, 2024 |18 min read
Can Cats Catch Colds from Humans? Symptoms, Causes, and Vet Advice
Written by
If you’ve ever curled up on the couch with your cat while nursing a nasty cold, you may have wondered, can cats catch colds from humans? After all, your cat shares your home, your routines, and probably your favorite spot on the couch.
The good news is that most human colds do not infect cats. The viruses that usually cause our sniffles and sore throats are different from the ones behind common feline respiratory infections. Still, cats can develop many of the same cold-like symptoms, including sneezing, nasal discharge, watery eyes, and a stuffy nose.
So, what causes a cat cold, and how can you tell when your cat needs extra care? This guide covers the difference between human colds and feline respiratory infections, the symptoms to watch for, treatment and home-care options, how long recovery may take, and when a veterinarian should step in.
Why Human Cold Viruses Can't Infect Cats
If you’re sick with a runny nose and a scratchy throat, you probably don’t need to worry about passing your ordinary cold to your cat. The viruses that cause most human colds, including rhinoviruses, are adapted to infect people, while the viruses behind most feline respiratory infections are different. That’s why a cat can develop cold-like symptoms without having caught your cold.
There are a few exceptions to keep in mind. Cats can occasionally become infected with human seasonal influenza viruses, and CDC also recognizes that cats can contract certain other respiratory viruses from people. These infections are different from the typical human cold and are uncommon.[1][2][3][4]
So, if your cat catches a cold, don't assume you gave it to them. Their symptoms may have a completely different cause, which is why a veterinarian should evaluate persistent or concerning signs.
What Is a Cat Cold? Understanding Feline Upper Respiratory Infections
“Cat cold” isn't a formal veterinary diagnosis. Cat parents often use the phrase to describe an illness that causes familiar respiratory problems, such as sneezing, congestion, or discharge from the nose or eyes. Veterinarians generally call these illnesses feline Upper Respiratory Infections (URIs).
A URI affects the upper parts of a cat's respiratory system, including the nose, nasal passages, throat, and sometimes the eyes. The infection can make these tissues irritated and swollen, which can explain why your cat starts sneezing or sounds congested.
Feline upper respiratory infections can have viral or bacterial causes, and the specific cause can affect how a cat feels and how long symptoms last. The illness can range from mild to more serious. A healthy adult cat may recover with supportive care, while kittens, senior cats, and cats with weakened immune systems may need closer veterinary attention.
If your cat develops repeated sneezing, nasal discharge, congestion, or other respiratory changes, knowing the signs of a feline upper respiratory infection can help you decide when it's time to contact your veterinarian.
Symptoms of a Feline Cold
A cat with a respiratory infection may seem a little off before the signs become obvious. You may notice more sneezing, a change in appetite, or your usually playful kitty spending extra time curled up in a quiet spot.
Here’s what you might notice if your kitty is battling the sniffles:
-
Sneezing: One of the most obvious signs is excessive sneezing. It can be frequent and forceful, accompanied by discharge from the nose.
-
Runny Nose and Eyes: A runny nose is common, with nasal discharge that can vary from clear to cloudy or yellowish. You might also see runny eyes, which can become watery and even crusty.
-
Reduced Appetite: A congested nose can make it harder for cats to smell their food, which might lead to a decrease in their appetite.
-
Lethargy: Your cat may sleep more, play less, or seem less interested in their usual activities.
-
Mild Fever: Some cats develop a fever during a respiratory infection.
While a cold in cats usually isn’t life-threatening, it can be particularly concerning in senior cats, unvaccinated cats, or those with compromised immune systems. Persistent symptoms may require a trip to the vet to rule out other conditions, such as bacterial infection or more severe health concerns.
What Causes Cat Colds?
A cat can develop cold-like symptoms after exposure to an infectious agent, most often another cat carrying a respiratory infection. Crowded shelters, boarding facilities, and multi-cat homes can make transmission easier because cats may share airspace, food and water bowls, bedding, or grooming areas.
The most common causes include:
-
Feline Herpesvirus: This virus can cause respiratory and eye problems and may remain in a cat’s body after the initial infection. Stress or illness can sometimes trigger symptoms again.
-
Feline Calicivirus: This virus can affect the mouth and respiratory tract and may cause signs that range from mild to more severe.
-
Bacteria: Bordetella bronchiseptica and Chlamydophila felis can cause respiratory illness in cats. Bacteria can also contribute to a secondary infection after a viral illness.
Exposure does not affect every cat in the same way. A cat’s age, vaccination status, stress level, and overall health can affect how an infection develops.
The same symptom can also have different causes. Sneezing, for example, can occur with a URI but may also accompany irritation or another respiratory problem. That’s why the cause can't always be determined from symptoms alone.
If your cat's signs are persistent, worsening, or accompanied by breathing problems, a veterinarian can identify the underlying issue and recommend appropriate care.[1][2][3][4]
How Do Veterinarians Diagnose a Cat Cold?
A veterinarian usually starts with your cat’s symptoms, medical history, and a hands-on physical exam. Because several conditions can produce similar respiratory signs, your veterinarian will consider your cat’s history and overall condition during the exam to decide whether a routine respiratory infection fits the picture or if something else needs investigation.
During the appointment, your veterinarian may ask about:
-
When the symptoms started and whether they are getting better or worse
-
Changes in appetite, drinking, energy, or behavior
-
Recent contact with other cats, boarding, travel, or changes at home
-
Your cat’s vaccination history and any existing health conditions
For a straightforward case, your vet may diagnose a feline upper respiratory infection based on the clinical signs alone. If symptoms are severe, persistent, or keep coming back, additional testing may help identify the cause. Depending on your cat’s symptoms, this can include swabs or samples from the nose, eyes, or throat, bloodwork, cultures, PCR testing, or X-rays.
Your veterinarian may also check for signs that the infection has moved beyond the upper airways. A cat with breathing difficulty, for example, may need more extensive testing and treatment.[5]
How to Treat a Cat Cold
Many uncomplicated feline upper respiratory infections improve with supportive care at home. More serious cases may require prescription medication, fluids, oxygen, hospitalization, or other veterinary treatment.
Medication depends on the underlying problem. Antibiotics can help when a bacterial infection or secondary bacterial infection is involved, but they do not treat viral infections. Your veterinarian may also prescribe antiviral medication or other treatments for specific complications. Cats that become dehydrated, severely depressed, or have trouble breathing may require more intensive care.
Skip the medicine cabinet, even if your cat seems to have the same symptoms you do. Human cold medicines and other over-the-counter products can be unsafe for cats. Don't give your cat medication or try a new home remedy unless your veterinarian has confirmed that it's appropriate and provided directions for use.[1][2][3][4]
Home Treatment for a Mild Cat Cold
If your veterinarian determines that your cat has a mild respiratory infection, a few simple steps can make recovery more comfortable. Your main job is to help your kitty eat, drink, rest, and breathe comfortably while keeping an eye on any changes.
Try these supportive-care measures:
-
Keep Water Available: Fresh water can help your cat stay hydrated. If your cat isn't drinking normally, ask your veterinarian for advice.
-
Make Food More Appealing: Congestion can dull a cat’s sense of smell. Warming wet food slightly can make its aroma more noticeable and may encourage eating.
-
Clear Away Discharge: Use a soft, damp cloth to gently clean discharge around your cat’s nose and eyes.
-
Add Some Humidity: A humidifier or another veterinarian-approved way of adding moisture to the air may help loosen respiratory secretions.
-
Give Your Cat a Quiet Place to Rest: Keep their routine calm and provide a comfortable space away from household commotion.
Watch your cat’s appetite, water intake, energy, and breathing as they recover. If your cat stops eating or drinking, becomes very lethargic, develops breathing problems, or fails to improve, home care may no longer be enough. Contact your veterinarian for guidance rather than waiting for the symptoms to resolve on their own.[1][2][3][4]
How Long Does a Cat Cold Last?
Most uncomplicated feline upper respiratory infections last about 7 to 14 days, although some cats may have symptoms for up to three weeks. The exact timeline depends on the infection, its severity, and your cat’s overall health.
You should see gradual improvement as your cat recovers. Sneezing and discharge may take some time to settle, but your cat should generally start acting more like themselves, eating and drinking normally, and showing more interest in their usual activities.
Some infections can last much longer. Severe cases may take several weeks to resolve, and feline herpesvirus can remain inactive in a cat’s body after the initial illness. Stress or another illness may trigger symptoms again later.
If your cat isn't improving within the expected timeframe, develops worsening symptoms, or has trouble eating, drinking, or breathing, contact your veterinarian. A longer-lasting or recurring illness may need further evaluation to determine what's causing the symptoms.
Cat Cold Recovery and Management
Once your cat develops respiratory symptoms, pay attention to the small changes that show whether they’re improving. Appetite, water intake, energy, and breathing can tell you a lot about how your kitty is doing.
During recovery:
-
Keep Meals Appealing: Congestion can dull your cat’s sense of smell, so they may lose interest in food. Offer their usual food and ask your veterinarian about alternatives if they aren't eating.
-
Watch Hydration: Keep fresh water available and pay attention to changes in drinking.
-
Track Behavior: A cat who gradually returns to normal eating, grooming, playing, and resting habits is generally showing signs of improvement.
-
Keep Things Calm: Give your cat a comfortable place to rest away from loud noises and household activity. Stress can also trigger respiratory symptoms in cats carrying feline herpesvirus.
If you have several cats, keep the sick cat separated from healthy cats when possible. Feline respiratory infections can spread between cats through respiratory secretions and contaminated objects, so separate food and water bowls, bedding, and litter supplies can help limit exposure.
Recovery isn't always perfectly steady. If your cat's appetite drops, energy declines, symptoms worsen, or breathing changes, contact your veterinarian rather than assuming the illness is following its usual course.
When Should You Take Your Cat to the Vet for a Cold?
A few sneezes may not call for an emergency visit, but respiratory symptoms deserve closer attention when they persist, worsen, or affect your cat’s basic needs. Your veterinarian can determine whether you're dealing with a routine respiratory infection or another condition with similar signs.
Contact your veterinarian if your cat:
-
Stops eating or has a significant drop in appetite. Cats can become seriously ill when they go without food, so don't wait several days to seek advice.[6]
-
Becomes unusually lethargic, weak, or difficult to rouse.
-
Develops worsening nasal or eye discharge, fever, or other symptoms that aren't improving.
-
Shows signs of dehydration or isn't drinking normally.
-
Has symptoms that keep returning or last longer than your veterinarian expects.
Breathing trouble needs prompt veterinary attention. Open-mouth breathing, rapid or labored breathing, or obvious effort when breathing can signal respiratory distress. Cornell advises taking a cat with difficulty breathing to a veterinarian right away.[7]
Kittens, senior cats, and cats with existing health problems may need closer monitoring because illness can affect them more severely. If you’re unsure how sick your cat is, it's reasonable to call your veterinarian and describe the symptoms.
When your kitty isn't feeling well, having a clear idea of preparing for a vet visit can also make the appointment less stressful for both of you.
How to Prevent Colds in Cats
Keeping your cat healthy involves a proactive approach, especially during the colder months. Here’s how to minimize their risk of catching colds or other respiratory infections:
1. Maintain a Clean Environment
Ever wondered how clean cats naturally are? Cats are meticulous about cleanliness, and they expect their living environment to match. Regularly cleaning your home and your cat’s belongings (like bedding, toys, and food dishes) helps reduce the presence of viruses, bacteria, and other germs. Remember, though, to use pet-friendly cleaners, as harsh chemicals can be harmful to their sensitive systems.
2. Provide Proper Nutrition
A well-balanced diet plays a significant role in keeping your cat’s immune system strong. High-quality, nutrient-rich cat food can make all the difference in supporting their immune system and overall health. If you're unsure about your cat's nutritional needs, consult with an experienced vet for tailored advice. It's also useful to consider what you need to know before getting a cat and be prepared to meet their health needs.
3. Monitor for Symptoms Early
It’s easy to overlook the early signs of a feline upper respiratory infection, but catching symptoms early can make a big difference. Pay attention to excessive sneezing, nasal discharge, changes in appetite, or any signs of lethargy. Prompt action and veterinary advice can prevent a mild case from developing into something more severe.
4. Keep Them Indoors During Cold Seasons
Indoor cats are generally at lower risk of catching illnesses than their outdoor counterparts. During the colder months, it’s wise to keep your cat indoors to avoid exposure to harsh weather and potential germs from other animals.
If you’ve ever wondered if cats get cold easily, the answer depends on various factors, such as age, health, coat, and temperature. But it’s always safer to keep them cozy and warm inside.
5. Offer Fresh Water
Staying hydrated helps keep your cat's mucous membranes moist and supports normal body function. Ensure there’s always fresh water available at a comfortable drinking temperature, especially if your cat prefers a particular water temperature.
6. Keep Vaccinations Up to Date
Vaccination can help protect cats against several infections that commonly cause feline respiratory illness. Your veterinarian can recommend a vaccination schedule based on your cat’s age, health, lifestyle, and exposure risk. Vaccines work by helping the immune system develop antibodies that can respond more effectively to specific pathogens.
Monitoring Your Cat's Health With PrettyLitter
Taking care of your cat's overall health goes beyond just preventing colds. A key aspect of pet care includes regular monitoring for any changes in their behavior or health status. That’s where PrettyLitter comes into play.
We understand the bond you share with your furry companion, and we're here to make your life easier. PrettyLitter helps you keep tabs on your cat’s health by monitoring changes in their urine that may point to potential health concerns. Our litter formula changes color to alert you to potential health issues like urinary tract infections or kidney problems—things that can sometimes be tricky to spot.
Keeping a clean litter box is not only helpful for your cat’s comfort but also for their health. By providing a hygienic, low-maintenance solution, we make it simpler for you to maintain a healthy environment for your kitty.
Tired of your
home smelling like
you have a cat?
FAQs - Can Cats Catch Colds From Humans?
How long does a cat cold last?
Most cat colds last about 7 to 14 days, though some symptoms can continue for up to three weeks. If your cat isn't improving or symptoms worsen, call your veterinarian.
Is there over-the-counter cold medicine for cats?
Don't give your cat human cold medicine unless your veterinarian specifically recommends it. Many human medications can be toxic to cats. Your veterinarian can determine whether your cat needs medication and which treatment is safe.
Can my cat catch my cold if we sleep together?
Your cat will not usually catch an ordinary human cold from sleeping beside you. Most cold viruses infect specific species. However, some respiratory viruses can spread from people to cats, so take precautions if you're sick.
When should I take my cat to the vet for a cold?
Contact your veterinarian if your cat stops eating, becomes unusually lethargic, develops worsening symptoms, or struggles to breathe. Kittens, senior cats, and cats with existing health conditions may need veterinary attention sooner.
How can I tell if my cat has a cold?
Common signs include frequent sneezing, nasal or eye discharge, congestion, decreased appetite, lethargy, and sometimes fever. These symptoms can have several causes, so persistent or worsening signs warrant a veterinary examination.
What should I do if my cat has cold symptoms?
Keep your cat comfortable, encourage eating and drinking, gently clean nasal or eye discharge, and provide a calm resting area. Monitor their symptoms closely and contact your veterinarian if they worsen or don't improve.
