The opening of the new Lost Cats’ Home will mean a decrease in cat flu, a very common disease in stray cats. In the new Lost Cats Home, individual housing with positive ventilation, glass fronted caging, and strict cleaning regimes will help prevent the spread of the disease.

So what is cat flu?

Cat flu is a respiratory disease of cats caused by a number of infectious agents – herpes virus , calici virus and chlamydia.

It can be easily spread from cat to cat through sneezing and can be carried on hands and shared bowls and equipment.

What are the signs?

Initially sneezing , loss of appetite, and fever, but signs can progress to severe ulcers and secondary problems such as pneumonia in severe cases.

How is cat flu treated?

There are no drugs available to specifically kill viruses so treatment generally involves supportive care while the cat’s immune system fights off the infection.

Treatment might involve antibiotics to treat secondary bacterial infection, decongestant drugs, and intravenous fluids to combat severe dehydration.

During this time the cat is treated in an isolation ward to prevent spread to other cats in our care.

At home treatment for mild cat flu might include cleaning discharge from the eyes and nose, providing warmed palatable foods to increase appetite, and nebulizers or simply breathing in steam in your bathroom after a shower as a decongestant.

Most cats have an uneventful recovery but some cats may go on to have periodic bouts of cat flu or become carriers of the virus.

How can I prevent my own cat from getting cat flu?

The good news is that the chance of getting cat flu is greatly reduced by regular vaccination, and if your cat does get cat flu the severity will be greatly reduced.

Feline Immunodeficiency Virus may predispose your cat to cat flu and other diseases so vaccination for this disease is also recommended.

Can I catch flu from my cat?

No. Cat flu and human flu are different diseases.

Where can I get more information?

The Veterinarians at the Lost Dogs’ Home provide treatment and advice for both stray and privately owned cats , not just dogs.