Cats experience much the same symptoms as we do when we have a cold. They get snotty runny noses, runny eyes, sneezing, temperature etc. And like humans they also are susceptible to the sinus and chest infections that are sometimes the result with a humans cold.

These infections are called secondary infections. It is important that when your kitten gets a cold that they receive the proper treatment.

Your cat cannot blow it's nose, so you need to keep the mucous and discharge clean by wiping the nose as needed with a damp, warm rag or tissue. Be gentle!

Just like in humans, a cat cold will last from 7 to 10 days.

Many cats will also refuse to eat when having a cold. One reason for this is that cats like to smell their food first, and with a runny nose, it's rather hard to pick up the scent.

Be very careful about dehydration! If your kitty is not eating and is becoming dehydrated, buy some canned cat food. It is 75 to 80% moisture and has a hearty smell to it.

Yes, cats cough. They wheeze, sneeze, and sniffle too; and most of it sounds like it does in people. You’re best alternative when your cat displays symptoms is to contact your local veterinarian or veterinary hospital, especially if your cat is displaying the more severe of these symptoms, or has other symptoms not listed in this article. Most of these places are willing to talk with you over the phone and may ease your concerns, but will suggest an office visit to make sure that your cat is not suffering from something more severe than a common cold.

I know that the information above, and a call to my veterinarian, recently saved my cat’s life. . My veterinarian informed me that I should not wait until my appointment coming up with him in two days, but should seek medical help immediately. I’m glad I did. My cat went into severe respiratory distress. With out the medication provided at the veterinary hospital, I would have watched helplessly as my cat died a painful death. This was thankfully not the case.

Copyright 2006 by Kim Babcock

Kim Babcock is an author on 1. http://www.Writing.Com/ which is a site for Writers. Her portfolio can be found at http://kimberlyb1968.Writing.Com/ so stop by and read for a while.