My cat's nose is hot, dry, dark. Is it an upper respiratory infection?

Hello. I would say you are exactly right, that Simba has an upper respiratory infection, essentially a cold. If he is eating & drinking fairly normally, then you probably do not need to rush him to the vet as colds often just need to run their course. As to why your female seems fine? Well, there is a good possibility she could start sneezing in the next week or so. Again, if the symptoms are mild, you may not need to do anything, but if either kitty quits eating or the ocular nasal discharge becomes thick or green, or you detect any problems breathing, then you will need to have them treated by your veterinarian. If your kitties have not had a full series of kitten vaccinations, which include the most commonly encountered upper respiratory infections a cat can contract, please make sure you complete the series as soon as everyone is feeling better. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

I am sorry you are worried! The behavior you are describing does sound like he doesn't feel well- (sorry it says both Sampson and Lilly so I am not sure which cat you are referring to). Unfortunately it is a subtle, vague behavior that can be linked to many things (good thing you picked up on it!). Since he was around a cat with a respiratory infection that would be my first concern- he may be trying to fight it off, or possibly having early signs of it. Since he isn't using the box much I would be worried he might becoming dehydrated or have a fever- which both could be secondary to an upper respiratory virus or secondary infection. I think you are right to take him in, in case he needs further testing or therapy to feel better! I hope his helps!

Upper respiratory infections (URIs) are very common in cats and are caused by different pathogens then what causes human colds. Symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections include clear or colored discharge from the eyes or nose, coughing, sneezing, swelling of the mucous membranes around the eyes, ulcers in the mouth, lethargy, and anorexia. In rare cases, cats may have trouble breathing. Lower respiratory tract infections may cause coughing, lethargy, anorexia, and difficult or rapid breathing. Here is a link to a site with a lot of good information on this topic. I hope this helps and thank you for usinf PetCoach! https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center/health-information/respiratory-infections

Hi, and thanks for your question. This sign could be compatible with an upper respiratory tract inflammation/infection or possibly to a rhinitis (inflammatory, allergic, infective). A clinical examination at your local veterinarian is essential to confirm these clinical suspicions and treat appropriately. Antibiotics may be needed. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further. If this answer was helpful please let us know, this will be used to improve our service!

This sign could be compatible with an upper respiratory tract inflammation/infection (affecting the eyes as well) and possibly to a chronic rhinitis (inflammatory, allergic, infective). A clinical examination at your local veterinarian is essential to confirm these clinical suspicions and treat appropriately. Antibiotics may be needed. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

Hi, and thanks for your question. This sign could be compatible with an upper respiratory tract inflammation/infection or possibly to a rhinitis (inflammatory, allergic, infective). A clinical examination at your local veterinarian is essential to confirm these clinical suspicions and treat appropriately. Antibiotics may be needed. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further. If this answer was helpful please let us know, this will be used to improve our service!

He may have an upper respiratory infection, which is quite common in cats. It is hard to say for sure without examining him myself. You can try using a humidifier to break up any mucous. As an alternative you can place him in the bathroom with the shower running for 5-10 minutes 2 x daily. However he ultimately will likely need antibiotics to clear up any bacterial infection that may be present. I would also recommend getting him on antiviral medication (I.e. lysine powder or gel from your local pet store or vet clinic) to treat for a suspected underlying viral infection. I hope your kitty feels better soon. Best wishes and take care.