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Expert: - 8/8/2011


Question
Dewey!
Dewey!
Hi,
My new kitten Dewey, who is now 10 weeks old, (I attached a picture) has been sneezing latly and has had the sniffles. The other day, I had a bucket of water (water from a creek by my house. I had caught a few fish for my turtles) in the room for just a minute and he was very very curious about it and was looking in it when he sniffed up some water (I think he sniffed up some water a couple of times). And since then I have notices that when he breaths through his nose it seems stuffy and he sneezes quite often. His nose has been a little runny also. He is eating normal, drinking water normal, cuddling normal, and playing normal, but I was wondering if you think it might be something serious and I should take him to the vet, or if you think it might clear up it a couple of days.

Thank you!



Maria

p.s. he is only about 6 weeks in this picture (when I first got him).

Answer
Maria,

It sounds to me like you might be describing an upper respiratory infection. Upper respiratory infections are quite common in kittens, particulary those that haven't yet been vaccinated. These are viral infections for the most part, however the kittens can sometimes get a secondary bacterial infection that can make them quite sick. Keep a close eye on Dewey and how he's eating, drinking, etc. Clean any nasal or eye discharges away with cotton balls moistened with warm water - (be sure to use clean cotton balls for the kitten's eyes and nose - you don't want to spread bacteria from his nose to his eyes) and if you notice any changes in his eating/drinking, activity, etc take him to the vet ASAP to ensure that he doesn't get so seriously ill that he can't be treated... For the moment it sounds like it's okay to wait and watch based on what you're saying. I doubt very much that the water from the creek has anything to do with Dewey's sneezing and stuffy nose, it's likely that he was exposed to a viral infection (kind of the feline equivalent of a cold) and at this point the main thing that you can do for him is just to watch him for signs of fever, lethargy, lack of appetite, not drinking on his own, etc... If he develops any of these signs he must see a vet immediately for treatment. It's not a good idea to vaccinate a sick kitten because their immune system is already occupied fighting off an illness and isn't equipped to deal with the additional challenge of developing antibodies to the contents of vaccines. All in all it sounds like Dewey should be just fine, but keep him isolated from any other cats in your household for the moment to try and avoid the spread of an upper respiratory infection - they tend to be extremely contagious.

Just so that you are aware I am basing the opinion in this answer on what you've told me... Obviously additional information could change that opinion. I am not a veterinarian so I can't prescribe medical treatments or perform diagnoses, the information in this answer is simply based on my experience and the information that you've provided. If you have any further cat related questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact me again at any time - I'm more than happy to help in any way that I can.

Kind regards,

Ali
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Ali

Expertise

I am the proud guardian of 5 mixed breed cats ranging from 12 weeks to 13 years old and one purebred ragdoll. I have 20+ years experience working with mixed breed cats from a variety of different situations. I have fostered cats/kittens with special needs/behavioral issues. I have rescued/rehabilitated/re-homed a variety of stray/abused cats. I can offer advice on managing feral cat colonies, rehabilitating strays and finding them forever homes. I can help you to determine whether a cat is stray or feral, there IS a significant difference. Improperly introducing a new cat/kitten can result in aggression between newly introduced cats because cats are territorial by nature and they don't like sudden changes in their environment. To learn more about a peaceful way to introduce a new cat into a home with other cats please check out my previous answers on this subject. Proper nutrition for cats can be confusing, I recommend checking out catinfo.org which was created by a veterinarian (Dr. Lisa Pierson) who takes a common sense approach to explaining feline nutrition. Cat behavior and instincts are different from those of humans, I can help you understand your cat's needs so that you can meet them adequately and have a balanced, psychologically and physically sound kitty. Cats vary in personality, energy level and intelligence, different approaches may be required to achieve results in terms of training and interaction with your feline companion. An intelligent, high energy cat must be kept busy or they will make their own fun. I am NOT a licensed veterinarian and I can't offer medical advice. If your cat is ill/injured my advice is always the same: get prompt medical treatment provided by a veterinarian. If finances are an issue I will try to find resources in your area that can help with medical costs or make other choices to ensure the welfare of your cat.

Experience

I have fostered feral and stray cats, rehabilitated and homed cats that many people recommended euthanasia for. I am willing to make an effort to do the research and ask questions because I care enough to find solutions to behavioral problems rather than giving up. I have an interest in the use of alternative therapies to help provide the best possible care for all cats and I can say in all honesty that I've seen some incredible things happen for some incredible cats and their human caregivers when the right alternative therapeutic modality is used by a qualified veterinarian with expertise and experience in the field.

Education/Credentials
I've earned my diploma as a veterinary assistant with honors.

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