question about possible contagious cat

I just started working at the house of an elderly woman.  She has 2 cats.  I was there for awhile around the cats and saw one sneeze something from his nose or mouth.   I watched him today - not sure if it was the same cat but this one also sneezed and something flew from his mouth/nose to the floor.

He then laid behind me on the couch and he sounded congested with his breathing (his nose was whistling - never heard that before from a cat).

I know there is a disease among cats that can be transferred by clothes/shoes.

Does this sound like he could be sick?   I have 2 housecats and ferals I care for so Im very worried.

thanks!!!

The only illness that I'm aware of that can be transferred by shoes and clothing is ringworm, but I'm not an expert on this sort of thing.  I would call a Vet and just ask them.

I would think that both a fairly standard URI and feline herpes could be transmitted on shoes and clothing, though neither one would be easy. 

My concern, first of all, would be for the cat, if it's not getting care.

There are some serious illnesses that cats get, which can be carried on clothes, shoes, hands, etc. Besides washing well after visiting that house, I suggest removing shoes and clothing away from your cats, until the items can be washed. Many of us who volunteer at shelters take this precaution all the time. I have a pair of shoes that are only worn at the shelter. They are in a plastic bag the rest of the time, and never come into the house.

Is there any way you can help get these sick cats medical attention?


Robin

thanks...

i just started the job.  She is not fond of me being there taking care of her let alone having me tell her how to care for her cats.   She does have a daughter in law that I could talk to.  I was only there 2 days - if by next week the cat is the same or worse I will talk to her. 

The cat only sneezed twice - but ive never seen a cat have anything come out of it like that. 

Yeah, we see the "kitty snot" on a regular basis at the shelter.  One way we know a cat is getting sick is when his front window gets sprayed.

so is it a real concern or possibly just a cold??

I really couldn't say. Sorry.

I would take the precautions with your clothing, so your cats aren't exposed to anything.. And talk to who you can about getting help for the lady's cats, when you can.

Robin