Upper Respiratory Infections

Upper Respiratory Infections

               Upper respiratory infections are common in cats and dogs.  Upper respiratory infection basically refers to an infection of the sinus but may also include infections of the trachea or windpipe.  These infections do not affect the lower airways (bronchi and bronchioles) or the lungs as with bronchitis or pneumonia. Though they can occur at any age, young kittens and puppies are more susceptible as are cats or dogs who are exposed to a large number of other animals such as at a dog park or boarding kennel. Stress can be a contributing factor in developing a respiratory infection which is why it is often more common in kittens and puppies in shelters or when first being adopted and entering a new home. 

               Common causes of upper respiratory infections (URI) are viruses such as herpesvirus and calicivirus in cats and canine influenza, canine adenovirus and parainfluenza in dogs.  Canine distemper virus can also cause severe respiratory infection as well as neurologic symptoms in dogs but is less common in today’s world due to routine vaccination. Bacterial infections can also affect the respiratory tract and include bacteria such as chlamydia and mycoplasma in cats and Bordetella (kennel cough) in dogs as well as a host of other bacteria.  Most causes of URI are highly contagious and spread by close contact with infected individuals and inhalation of aerosolized droplets due to coughing and sneezing. Contamination of shared food or water bowls, bedding or other objects may also be a source of infection.  Respiratory inflammation from allergies or smoke/chemical irritants may also predispose a pet to infection.

               Symptoms of an upper respiratory infection often include sneezing, discharge from the nose and eyes and may include coughing and/or frequent swallowing.  Decreased appetite, lethargy and fever may also be present.  As with human cold viruses, most viral infections in cats and dogs are mild and self-limiting, meaning the pet will recover on their own within 7-14 days, and there is no direct treatment for viral infections.  Viruses often produce clear nasal and eye discharge.  Bacterial infections can cause green or yellow mucus and almost always require treatment with antibiotics.  If your pet is not eating, is lethargic, has a fever or is dehydrated, supportive care with IV fluids, fever reducing drugs or other medications may be necessary whether the infection is bacterial or viral in origin.

               It is important to isolate sick pets if in a multi-pet household to try to prevent spread to others and to use good hygiene by washing hands after handling a sick pet and by washing bedding, bowls and toys frequently until the pet is recovered.  It is also important to note, most infections, especially viral infections, do not cross species.  For instance, feline herpesviral infection does not spread to dogs or people, but can be contagious to other cats.

               URI is rarely serious; however, some cases can be chronic/recurrent and some infections may enter the lower airways causing more serious infections in the lungs such as bronchitis or pneumonia. Remember, if your pet is acting sick—lethargic, not eating, etc.—seek veterinary care.  Minor sneezing or coughing in an otherwise normal, active pet who is eating and drinking normally may be monitored for a few days, but, if in doubt, have your pet seen by your vet.

               This blog brought to you by the Patton Veterinary Hospital serving Red Lion, York and the surrounding communities.

https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4951489

https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=6274586