Does My Cat Have Cat Flu?

Key points:

• Cat flu is a contagious respiratory illness that can affect cats of all ages.
• Sneezing, nasal discharge, watery eyes, reduced appetite and lethargy are common symptoms.
• Kittens, senior cats and cats with weakened immune systems may be more vulnerable to severe illness.
• A vet can help diagnose the cause and recommend appropriate treatment and supportive care.
• Keeping an infected cat comfortable, hydrated and separated from other cats can support recovery and reduce spread.
• Vaccination and good hygiene are important ways to reduce the risk and severity of cat flu.

Cat flu is a common, highly contagious upper respiratory condition that can affect cats of all ages. It has several telltale cat flu symptoms, although many can overlap with other health conditions, which is why it’s important to see a vet if you suspect your cat is unwell.

Read on to learn how to tell if your cat has cat flu, the symptoms to look for, when to see a vet and how to support their recovery at home.

Common cat flu symptoms

Key signs of cat flu to keep an eye on include:

• Sneezing

• Nasal discharge

• Watery eyes

• Conjunctivitis

• Reduced appetite

• Lethargy

• In more severe cases, corneal or mouth ulcers

Symptoms can vary in severity, and kittens, senior cats and immunocompromised cats can be more vulnerable to severe illness.

What causes cat flu?

Cat flu in cats is commonly associated with two viruses that cause cat upper respiratory infection: feline herpesvirus (FHV-1) and feline calicivirus (FCV). Other infectious organisms can also contribute to respiratory disease. 

FHV-1 and FCV share many symptoms, and cats can be infected with both at the same time. They’re also highly contagious and can spread between cats through respiratory secretions and contaminated objects.

Because symptoms overlap, it can be difficult to determine the cause at home. If you notice feline flu symptoms, the best course of action is to contact your vet.

When to see a vet

If your cat develops symptoms of cat flu, particularly sneezing, nasal discharge, watery eyes, conjunctivitis or reduced appetite, book an appointment with a vet. It’s especially important to act promptly if you have a kitten, senior cat or immunocompromised cat.

A proper diagnosis is the best starting point for helping your cat recover. Your vet can recommend appropriate cat flu treatment, which may include supportive care and medication depending on the cause and severity of their illness.

Supporting your cat's recovery at home

If your vet determines your cat has feline flu, they’ll provide guidance on supporting their recovery at home. Along with any prescribed medications, this may include:

• Keeping your cat’s eyes and nose clean

• Separating them from other cats while they’re contagious

• Cleaning bedding, bowls and other shared items

• Encouraging them to eat and drink

• Providing a warm, calm environment while they recover

Follow your veterinarian’s advice and give any prescribed medications for the full duration instructed.

Preventing cat flu

Vaccination and good hygiene are among the best ways to reduce the risk and severity of cat flu. Some cats can continue carrying or shedding viruses after their symptoms resolve, making prevention particularly important in multi-cat environments.

The F3 vaccination protects against feline herpesvirus, feline calicivirus and feline panleukopenia. Kittens require an initial vaccination course, while the timing of boosters for adult cats should be determined with your vet based on factors such as health, lifestyle and exposure risk. 

Vaccination may not completely prevent infection with FHV-1 or FCV, but it can reduce the risk of severe disease.

You can also reduce your cat’s exposure to cats that appear unwell. In multi-cat households, prioritise hygiene by regularly cleaning bedding, food and water bowls, litter trays and water fountains.

Have you noticed cat cold symptoms such as sneezing or watery eyes? Book a check-up with your local Petstock Vet today.