What is feline upper respiratory infection?
Feline upper respiratory infection (URI) is a highly contagious disease affecting the nasal passages and sinuses of cats and kittens. Q: How is it transmitted? A: Feline URI is transferred between cats by fluid discharged from the mouths and noses of infected cats. Cats shed the virus through the air by sneezing, coughing, or breathing; or by direct physical contact with cages, toys and food bowls. Q: What are the signs? A: Symptoms of feline URI include sneezing; fever; runny nose or red, watery eyes; nasal congestion; and ulcers on the tongue, gums, lips, nose, or roof of mouth. Symptoms are generally mild at first and worsen within one to three days. The incubation period (the time period between infection and the first signs of illness) lasts from 2 to 17 days. The illness typically lasts from one to four weeks. Q: Which cats get it? A: Any cat who is stressed by poor nutrition, cold or heat, age, or fear. Cats who are especially at risk for infection include unvaccinated cats, kit
