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Cat Lethargy and Sneezing

The problem of feline respiratory distress is a common condition that affects numerous cats each year. Their respiratory systems are prone to infection from contact with other cats and other environmental factors, and one of the symptoms that many cats present is sneezing. Although this in itself is not a serious issue, many cats develop lethargy that affects their general well-being.

  1. Aspects of Respiratory Infection

    • Viral and bacterial infections are the cause of most cases of a upper respiratory infection in felines. These elements are found most often in the mouth, eyes and nose of the cat, leading to irritation and discharge from the eyes and nose especially. The result is increased episodes of sneezing. More severe infections lead to loss of appetite and fever, which exacerbate the condition. Cats who are prone to URI or who only have a few episodes can become carriers of the bacteria and viruses, and recurrences of the condition will appear in the future.

    Associated Lethargic Reaction

    • Lethargy is one of the more common symptoms of a URI in cats. This is a result of either a low-grade fever or the loss of appetite that results from the sneezing and irritation with which the cat is living. Although lethargy will pass once the URI is treated effectively, this loss of energy and lack of nourishment can lead to dehydration if not addressed right away.

    Causes of Sneezing from URI

    • The viruses and bacteria that cause cats to sneeze become lodged in the membranes and tissues of facial organs specifically. This is similar to how humans are affected, but cats are more likely to develop chronic problems in their respiratory systems that will become a more serious issue in time. Lethargy is just one of the side effects of a URI and can be addressed effectively by encouraging nourishment and providing more water for the cat.

    Treating URI in Cats

    • Viral infections that lead to feline URI will not generally respond to drug treatment. However, secondary bacterial infections that are associated with a URI will respond to certain antibiotics such as tetracycline-type drugs (specifically doxycycline). There is a risk of immune system problems from more serious infections such as feline herpes, and stronger drugs might be necessary to treat these conditions.

    Other Infectious Types of Feline Infections

    • There are other more serious infections that attack the respiratory system of cats. One of these is Chlamydia, which was often referred to as a type of flu or pneumonia in the past. This condition, more specifically termed Feline Chlamydophila, is an offshoot of infections of the respiratory system that affects the eyes of the cat. The membranes within the eyelids and the sclera (white lining that covers the eye) become irritated and begin to discharge fluids. This form of conjunctivitis mainly affects kittens and can be prevented with vaccinations.

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