A cat peeks around corner.

My cat is having some tearing, eye discharge and sneezing. What should I do?

Our question this week was:

I recently got on this website about my 7-year-old cat named Babe, he passed away a week later from liver disease. I miss him very much. On a brighter note my daughter surprised me with an 11-week-old Calico kitten! It has filled my sadness with joy! My question is: Sophie is having some tearing and drainage from her eyes also she is sneezing some, what is your advice on this? Thank You.

Mary Elliott

Answer

Hi ā€“ thanks for your email. Iā€™m sorry to here about Babe. Sophie sound very cute! Tearing, eye discharge and sneezing are common symptoms of feline upper respiratory tract disease. It is a very common problem in kittens.

Feline upper respiratory infection (FURI) refers to infections in the area of the nose, throat and sinus area, much like the common cold in humans. In cats, these infections are quite common and very contagious. The two primary viruses involved are feline herpesvirus-1 and feline calicivirus. Feline chlamydia, a bacterial infection, can also result in upper respiratory tract infections.

An article that might be helpful to you is feline upper respiratory tract disease This article will give you information on diagnostic tests, treatment options, and more.

If you kitten is eating, playful and active ā€“ those are good signs. Some cats will have fevers, quit eating and/or get corneal ulcerations. If the eyes are red, she is not eating, acting lethargic or you have any other concerns, please see your veterinarian.

Best of luck!

Dr. Debra

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