Causes

• A cat with a cold may stop eating.Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Powi) (Per Ola Wiberg
  
  Feline colds are caused by infectious viruses that are spread from cat to cat. The two most common cold causing viruses in cats are rhinotracheitis (feline herpes) and the calicivirus. When the cat's immune system cannot get rid of the virus, bacteria can set in.
  
  

Symptoms

• Sneezing and runny nose is common in a cat with a URI,Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Kevin Dooley
  
  A cat with a cold may sneeze and have a runny nose, and may stop eating due to loss of smell caused by congestion. Some cats will get infected eyes that are red or runny.
  
  

Treatment

• L-lysine helps treat cat colds and feline herpes.Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of tanakawho
  
  The amino acid l-lysine, found in heath food stores and vitamin shops, is an anti-viral and safe to give to cats. L-lysine also is available in treats, and 250 to 500 milligrams per day can treat feline URIs and herpes infections. In severe or chronic cases, a veterinarian will prescribe antibiotics.
  
  

Prevention

• Regular cat and kitten vaccinations include rhinotracheitis and calicivirus, but there are other viruses that cause colds in cats. Strengthen the immune system with a healthy diet low in carbohydrates and high in moisture. Give the cat exercise and play time daily, and supplement the diet with vitamin treats.
  
  

Warnings

• Calcivirus and rhinotracheitis can be deadly to some cats. A cat that stops eating for more than a day must be force fed or given fluids to prevent dehydration and fatty liver syndrome.