Early Symptoms of Feline Rhinotracheitis (Cat Flu)

1 Feline Rhinotracheitis (Cat Flu)

1. Why does a cold turn into cat flu?

A normal cold does not always become cat flu, but it can. Why would a simple cold trigger it? During a cold the cat’s resistance is already low; if the owner does nothing and the cold worsens, the immune system drops further and viruses seize the chance — raising the risk of cat flu. Kittens are at even greater risk if a cold is left untreated.

Only by knowing the early signs can an owner judge better and act in time.

2. Early symptoms of cat flu

Early cat flu shows as sneezing, nasal discharge and watery eyes. When mild, the cat’s appetite is unaffected and it still eats, plays and sleeps. Inattentive owners may miss these signs, but when the virus fully breaks out the harm is great. So watch the cat’s condition closely and catch problems early.

In early cat flu, a vet-recommended lysine supplement (with lysine, taurine, vitamins C, E and B2) can help: high-purity lysine supplies what the cat needs for cell repair; taurine treats acute and herpetic/viral conjunctivitis and repairs the eyes; the vitamins give balanced nutrition and strengthen resistance. If the cat has a fever or worsens, see a vet promptly.

Cats are more independent than dogs and changeable in mood; most of all they do not cry when sick and prefer hiding in corners, so they need their owner’s active care. With serious, attentive care, a pet gains the strength to fight any illness.