Cat Snuffles‘ also known as ‘Cat Flu’ refers to upper respiratory tract infections, most of which are caused by one of two viruses-the feline herpes virus and the feline calicivirus. Since they are included in cat vaccines, cat flu is more often seen in unvaccinated animals.
What Are The Signs Of Cat Snuffles?
Clinical signs include:
- Conjunctivitis
- Sneezing
- Nasal discharge
- Ocular discharge
- Loss of appetite
- Coughing
- Excessive drooling of saliva
- Eye ulcers
- Fever
- Depression
- Mouth ulcers
Very young, very old and immunosuppressed cats are more likely to contract serious diseases and are likely to die as a result of their URI, typically due to secondary infections (like pneumonia), lack of nutrition and dehydration.
Recommended: visual rapid test for the qualitative detection of Dirofilaria immitis antigen
How Is Snuffles Transmitted?
‘Cat Snuffles is a highly infectious virus that is present in the saliva, tears and nasal discharges of infected cats and can live in the atmosphere for up to 10 days. Your cat may be vulnerable to infection if:
- Your pet cat comes into contact with an infectious cat
- Your pet cat comes into contact with an infected cat
- If you have been in contact with an infected cat, the virus may be carried back to your cat on your clothes and other things, such as food bowls.
How Is Snuffles Treated And Prevented?
If you believe that your cat is suffering from snuffles, please take your precious cat to the vet right away. Your vet can give symptomatic treatment to help your cat feel some ease from the virus and help prevent secondary bacterial infections that may be very severe and life-threatening. You can give your cat support treatment, including a stress-free atmosphere, good diet and good nursing care.
You can lower the risk of your cat getting snuffles by vaccinating. Viruses that causes snuffles are very common and highly infectious – so, even though your cat is single, indoor cat vaccination is still important to protect it from snuffles.
