Help! My Cat Has a URI! (Vet Answered)
This question has been answered by a vet
Veterinarian & Animal Behaviorist
With nearly two decades in veterinary medicine, Dr. Paola brings hands-on experience across multiple species. A graduate of the University of Guadalajara, she specializes in preventive care, animal welfare, and positive reinforcement training.
The Question
“I have a little kitten called Smokey. He just showed up on my front porch one day. He has an upper respiratory infection. I’ve been putting him in a carrier with a nebulizer and saline solution. It seems to be helping. Does he have to have antibiotics as well? Now I need to find the little guy a home. I already have 5 cats, so I can’t keep him. Love Catster. Lots of great info. Thank you“ – Cher
Quick Info about Smokey
Hi Cher, thank you so much for stepping up to care for little Smokey. It sounds like you’re doing a beautiful job already, and I’m sure he feels that warmth. Upper respiratory infections (URIs) are unfortunately quite common in kittens, especially those who have had a rough start outdoors. Your use of a nebulizer with saline is a gentle and effective way to help loosen secretions and support his breathing, which is wonderful supportive care.
Whether or not antibiotics are needed depends on the cause and severity of the infection. Many URIs in cats are viral, particularly due to feline herpesvirus or calicivirus. In these cases, antibiotics wouldn’t address the root cause but might be prescribed to manage or prevent secondary bacterial infections, especially if there’s green or yellow discharge, fever, or if the kitten seems lethargic and isn’t eating. Smokey’s signs suggest he requires a physical exam and potentially diagnostic tests to determine the best course of action, so the recommendation is to have him checked by a veterinarian. This way, they can decide if antibiotics or additional treatments like antivirals or eye medications are necessary. If you’re unsure whether he needs an urgent visit, a teletriage veterinary service can be a helpful first step to assess the urgency based on what you’re observing at home, but keep in mind that medical treatments, especially antibiotics can only be prescribed by a veterinarian after checking Smokey and establishing a doctor-patient relationship.
As for rehoming him, thank you for your compassion in thinking of his future. Since he’s already receiving care, he’s on a great path to recovery and will likely be a loving addition to the right home. Reaching out to local rescue groups, posting on community boards, or asking your trusted vet if they know of any potential adopters can be helpful next steps. If you can share that he’s already been started on care, that can be reassuring for potential adopters. He’s lucky to have crossed your path by showing up on your porch, Cher. I admire your compassion!
– Dr. Paola