Cat caught a cold. Need re-assurance

gooned

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As many years that I have owned cats, none have ever had a cold - until yesterday. My girl started sneezing and coughing and has, what sounds like, some congestion. She does not appear to be having trouble breathing. I called the Vet today and was told that as long as no milky or green discharge is present (which is currently not visible), that the cold should run it's course. I was prescribed some Viralys (L-Lysine) and started her on it today. Her appetite, which is usually very good, has declined today although she has eaten a few portions of her wet food with the Viralys sprinkled on it. I figure that, like people, her appetite will wane until she feels better. I know the importance of food and water and will do all I can to encourage her.

Since I have no experience with cat colds, I hope someone can tell me what to expect over the next few days. I'm worried about her - especially with the holidays here and limited Vet hours.

Thanks
 

mrblanche

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It happens to virtually every cat that comes into the shelter.  They can get pretty nasty, but, since they're a virus, antibiotics won't affect it.  If it gets really bad, she may have secondary infections that the vet can treat.  It sounds like you're on top of it, so far.
 
 

finnlacey

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The reason a kitty won't eat when they have a cold is because they can't smell their food. The lysine will help a lot so give it a chance. Glad you called the vet and it does sound like you are on top of it. Let us know if anything changes but I think as your vet says, it has to run it's course. 
 
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gooned

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Thanks for the encouraging comments. Today, she has absolutely no interest in food. I tried warming it up and hand feeding. Before freaking her out and attempt a syringe feeding, should I just leave her alone and give her rest time? How long will she have no appetite? To my knowledge she has not eaten in about 12 hours. She does seem to not be sneezing as much but seems very 'out of it'.

Thanks 
 

finnlacey

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Just don't wait too much longer. I think that by the end of today if she's still not eating, it's time to syringe some food. Waiting too long can cause hepatic lipidosis but right now she's okay at 12 hours. Usually when a kitty is syringe fed, the initial taste of food can get them to start eating on their own again. 
 
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