Have you ever heard of cat flu? Feline respiratory complex or feline rhinotracheitis is a disease that affects the cat's respiratory system, causing symptoms similar to those of human flu. The cat sneezing, for example, is a very common symptom. The disease is easily transmitted, so guardians should be alert. So that you understand more about the seriousness of this problemhealth, the Paws of the House talked to feline medicine specialist veterinarian Jéssica de Andrade. See below what she told us!

Does a cat get the flu?

Feline rhinotracheitis has symptoms similar to those of a human flu and, because of this, is popularly called the flu in cats. But is this definition correct? The specialist explains the problematic of this comparison: "The feline respiratory complex is a disease that affects the respiratory system of cats caused by the herpesvirus and feline calicivirus. It can also occur withIt is commonly referred to as feline flu due to the similarities in symptoms, but they are different diseases and feline respiratory complex can be more severe than human flu."

It is possible to say, then, that "cats get the flu", but always taking into account that the disease of felines tends to be more complex than a human flu. "When we call the disease 'flu' and due to its wide occurrence, geckos tend to underestimate the disease", says Jéssica.

Influenza: which symptoms does a cat with feline rhinotracheitis show?

You already know that this disease affects the respiratory system of kittens and ends up leading them to develop signs similar to a human flu. But after all, what exactly are the symptoms of this disease? We made a list of them according to the information passed by the veterinarian. check out:

• nasal discharge;
• eye discharge;
• gingivitis;
• feline conjunctivitis;
• coughing cat;
• sneeze;
• apathy;
• lack of appetite.

Although they may seem of little concern, symptoms like this should alert the guardian. It is important that the gatekeeper gives due importance when perceiving the cat with the flu. "The disease, when not treated properly, can lead to more serious conditions, such as ocular enucleation (removal of the eye), severe gingivitis that may require tooth extraction, feline pneumonia and can lead the animal to thedeath", warns the professional.

Cat with flu: what to do?

Now that you understand more about the disease, you may be wondering how to cure "cat flu." The disease is complex and needs to be investigated to be treated correctly. "Diagnosis begins with the clinical evaluation of the animal, based on the symptoms and material can be collected for tests to identify the presence of pathogens in the patient," says Jessica.

It is essential that the guardian refer the kitten to the veterinarian when identifying any sign of change in the pet's respiratory tract. Avoid homemade recipes with the aim of treating the cat. It is important that the cat with rhinotracheitis receives the appropriate treatment. "Treatment will vary according to the animal's clinical picture. Patients with only eye symptoms, for example, mayHowever, other patients may require the use of anti-inflammatory drugs, immune stimulants, antiviral drugs and even antibiotics in cases of secondary infections. The animal that has feline respiratory complex will be positive for the disease for life, requiring in many cases the attention and continuous care of the patient.this patient", the veterinarian explained.