Because no antiviral medications are presently available, treatment is primarily supportive. The veterinarian will make specific recommendations based on the cat's symptoms and the severity of illness. The infected animal should be kept warm and quiet. Some treatments may include cleaning the discharges from the nose and eyes, offering highly odoriferous and palatable foods, and coaxing the cat to eat and drink. Some kittens may need to be fed via a syringe. Humidifying the airway can be accomplished by taking the cat into a bathroom filled with steam from a hot shower. The veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics to prevent secondary bacterial infections. Eye ointments and nasal decongestants may be indicated as well.
Most felines with upper respiratory infections are treated on an outpatient basis to decrease the possibility of contaminating the veterinary hospital. Severe cases of respiratory infections may require hospitalization in an isolated section of the veterinary hospital. Kittens or cats with significant clinical signs may require subcutaneous or intravenous fluids and oxygen therapy for pneumonia or low blood oxygen levels. Some cats may require more advanced feeding techniques until their appetites return.
