New Cats and Upper Respiratory Infections (URIs) – The “Kitty Cold”
Since the shelter environment is so stressful on cats and because cats are kept in such close quarters while in the shelter, it is common for cats in the shelter to contract feline upper respiratory infect
ions (URIs). Furthermore, since the transition into a new home can also be stressful, cats who are healthy at the shelter may begin to break with URI when they are fi rst moved to a new home. If you notice your new cat sneezing excessively or has discharge from his eyes or nose, it is likely that your cat has URI.
URI is also called the “Kitty Cold” because it is the feline equivalent of the common cold humans contract and its symptoms include: sneezing, nasal discharge, lethargy, lack of appetite, and dehydration. Note that feline URI is not transmissible to humans, though it can be transmitted to other cats through the air or direct contact.
The best thing for you to do if your new cat begins to develop URI is to take advantage of any discounted health services offered with your adoption and to take your cat to your veterinarian. The worst thing you can do is to return the cat to the animal shelter because it has been shown that cats recover much better in a home environment.
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