Home › Animalia › Animal health › Animal diseases › Feline upper respiratory infection
Feline upper respiratory infection
Feline upper respiratory infection, commonly called cat flu, is a very common and contagious respiratory disease affecting mainly the nose, throat and eyes. It is caused by several infectious agents that often act together. It is one of the...
What is it?
Feline upper respiratory infection, commonly called cat flu, is a very common and contagious respiratory disease affecting mainly the nose, throat and eyes. It is caused by several infectious agents that often act together. It is one of the leading causes of respiratory illness in cats, especially in catteries and shelters in Tunisia.
Cat flu is mainly caused by infections with feline herpesvirus and feline calicivirus. Bacteria such as Chlamydophila felis or Bordetella bronchiseptica can worsen the disease when combined with these viruses. Often, several agents are present simultaneously in the same animal.
Kittens, elderly cats and immunocompromised cats are more vulnerable to this disease. Living in groups, such as in shelters or catteries, greatly increases the risk of contagion. Stress and lack of vaccination are also important contributing factors.
Commonly observed signs
These signs are neither exhaustive nor specific. Only a veterinarian can establish a diagnosis.
Typical signs include sneezing, nasal and eye discharge, conjunctivitis, and sometimes mouth ulcers. The cat may also show fever, loss of appetite and general lethargy. In severe cases, breathing difficulties may occur.
When to consult without delay
This list does not replace veterinary advice. It gathers situations that justify a prompt consultation.
Transmission
The disease spreads through direct contact with an infected cat's secretions, such as saliva or nasal and eye discharge. It can also spread via contaminated objects like bowls, litter boxes, or human hands. Carrier cats can shed the virus even without visible symptoms.
Diagnosis and care
Diagnosis is the veterinarian's responsibility, based on clinical examination and laboratory tests. Care is decided case by case.
If signs of cat flu appear, it is important to consult a veterinarian quickly for professional advice. They can assess the cat's condition and recommend appropriate care. Never give medication without prior veterinary guidance.
Prevention
Regular vaccination is the best way to prevent cat flu. It is also advisable to maintain good environmental hygiene and isolate any sick cat to limit its spread. A balanced diet and regular veterinary check-ups help strengthen the cat's immunity.
References
Content reviewed by the TunisieVet editorial team · Updated 08 August 2026
AT A GLANCE
Need a veterinarian?
Find a practitioner near you on TunisieVet, with their specialities, hours and contact details.
Find a veterinarianAffected species
This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for a veterinary consultation. If you have any concerns about your animal's health, consult a veterinarian.
To discover
Related diseases and linked Animalia content.
Rabies
Viral · Vaccine available
Hip dysplasia
Other
Otitis externa
Environmental
Periodontal disease
Other