Can Cats Get the Flu?

If you've ever had the flu, you know just how miserable it can be—runny nose, sore throat, fatigue, and endless sneezing. But what about our feline friends? Do cats get the flu? If your cat is suddenly sneezing, feeling sluggish, or showing signs of a respiratory infection, you might wonder if they’ve caught something similar to what humans experience.

While cats can’t catch the same influenza viruses that affect people, they can develop their own version of the flu, commonly known as cat flu. This illness, often caused by upper respiratory infections, can lead to symptoms that closely mimic those of a cold or flu in humans. Understanding the signs, causes, and treatment for cat flu can help you ensure your feline companion recovers smoothly and comfortably.

Introduction to Cat Flu

Just like humans, cats are susceptible to viral respiratory infections that can make them feel under the weather. Cat flu is a general term used to describe upper respiratory infections in cats, typically caused by viruses like feline calicivirus (FCV) and feline herpesvirus (FHV-1).1 These viruses affect the nose, throat, and eyes, leading to flu-like symptoms that can range from mild to severe.

How Is Cat Flu Different from Human Flu?

Even though the term “flu” is used for both humans and felines, the viruses responsible for these illnesses are different. While humans get sick from influenza viruses, cat flu is caused by specific feline respiratory infections that don’t spread to people. However, these viruses are highly contagious among cats, especially in multi-cat households, shelters, and catteries.

How Do Cats Catch the Flu?

Cats can get infected through:

• Direct contact with a sick cat’s saliva, nasal discharge, or eye secretions2
• Shared food and water bowls
• Contaminated surfaces, bedding, or litter boxes
• Exposure to infected cats in shelters or outdoor environments

Once a cat is exposed to a viral infection, symptoms may occur within a few days, and some cats can even become long-term carriers of the virus, spreading it to others without showing symptoms themselves.

If you’re worried about whether cats catch colds from humans, you can rest easy. Humans can’t spread the virus to cats.

Symptoms of the Flu in Cats

Recognizing early symptoms of cat flu is essential for providing your pet with the right care. While some cases are mild, severe infections can lead to complications if left untreated.

Common Signs of Cat Flu

Here are some of the common signs of flu that you might want to check for your cats:

• Sneezing: One of the first symptoms you’ll notice. If your cat keeps sneezing, it could be a sign of respiratory infections.
• Runny nose and nasal discharge: Clear discharge is common, but thick, yellow, or green mucus could indicate a bacterial infection.
• Watery or red eyes: Eye infections, swelling, and discharge can develop, leading to discomfort.
• Loss of appetite: A congested nose can make it difficult for a cat to smell food, causing them to eat less than usual.
• Lethargy: Your typically energetic cat may seem more tired, withdrawn, or uninterested in play.
• Mild fever: If your cat feels warmer than usual, learn how to tell if a cat has a fever to monitor their health and seek help if needed.

When to See a Vet

Most cases of cat flu are resolved with supportive care at home, but some situations require veterinary attention. Contact your vet if you notice:

• Persistent high fever
• Difficulty breathing or wheezing
• Refusal to eat for more than 24 hours
• Thick eye or nasal discharge that worsens over time
• Signs of dehydration (dry gums, sunken eyes, or reduced urination)

Certain high-risk groups, like kittens, elderly cats, or those with weakened immune systems, are more vulnerable to serious complications. Early veterinary care is key to help prevent additional complications.

How to Care for a Cat with the Flu

If your cat has the flu, providing the right at-home care can make a big difference in their recovery. While there’s no specific cure for cat flu, supportive care helps manage symptoms and keeps your feline friend comfortable.

At-Home Care and Recovery Tips

1. Encourage hydration: Cats with the flu may drink less, which can lead to dehydration. To encourage cat hydration, offer fresh water frequently and consider adding water to their food.3
2. Make eating easier: If congestion makes it difficult for your cat to smell their food, try warming up wet food slightly to enhance the aroma.
3. Keep their eyes and nose clean: To prevent irritation and infection, use a soft, damp cloth to gently wipe away nasal discharge or eye gunk.
4. Create a warm, cozy space: A quiet, stress-free environment helps your cat rest and recover. Keep them indoors and ensure their bedding is clean and comfortable.
5. Use a humidifier: Adding moisture to the air can help relieve congestion and make breathing easier for sick cats.
6. Reduce stress: Stress weakens the immune system, making it harder for your cat to fight off infections. Keep their routine stable and provide comfort through gentle interaction.

If symptoms worsen or persist beyond 10–14 days, consult your veterinarian for additional treatment options.

Preventing the Spread to Other Pets

Cat flu is highly contagious to other cats but does not spread to humans or dogs. If you have multiple felines in your home, take these precautions to protect them:

• Separate the sick cat from healthy pets until they recover.
• Wash your hands thoroughly after handling your cat.
• Disinfect shared bowls, litter boxes, and bedding regularly.
• Avoid boarding or introducing new cats until your cat is fully recovered.

If you’re caring for a cat infected with the flu, being proactive about hygiene can prevent an outbreak in multi-cat households. You can ask your veterinarian for a flu vaccine for your cats if it’s available.

PrettyLitter: Supporting Cat Owners

Caring for a sick pet can feel overwhelming, but PrettyLitter is here to help. Our mission is to empower cat parents with resources and support that make feline health easier to monitor.

The PrettyLitter community provides a space to learn, share experiences, and find guidance on cat care, including feline illness prevention and recovery. Whether you're looking for recovery tips or simply want to hear from fellow cat lovers, this community fosters a space where cat parents can feel informed and supported.

By staying proactive about your cat’s health, you can help them bounce back from the flu and enjoy their playful, loving nature once again.

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Keeping Your Cat Comfortable 

So, can cats have the flu? Yes—but it’s not quite the same as human flu. Cat flu, caused by upper respiratory infections, can make your feline feel under the weather, but with proper care, most cats recover well.

If you suspect your cat has the flu, monitor their symptoms, keep them comfortable, and provide plenty of hydration. And if you notice signs of severe illness, don’t hesitate to contact your vet.

Sources:

1. International Cat Care. Cat flu – upper respiratory infection. https://icatcare.org/articles/cat-flu-upper-respiratory-infection
2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. About Cat Flu. https://www.cdc.gov/flu-in-animals/about/cat-flu.html
3. Blue Cross. Cat flu. https://www.bluecross.org.uk/advice/cat/health-and-injuries/cat-flu