Can I Give My Cat the Flu? Understanding Feline Respiratory Health

Cats rarely catch the flu from humans, but understanding feline respiratory infections is key to keeping your pet safe. This article explains the risks, symptoms, and practical steps to protect your cat—based on 2024 veterinary guidelines.

Can Cats Really Catch Human Flu?

The flu virus responsible in humans—influenza A and B—is generally not transmissible to cats. Research from the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) confirms that while cats can suffer from respiratory illnesses, they are not natural hosts for human flu viruses. However, cats can contract feline-specific viruses such as feline herpesvirus (FHV-1) and feline calicivirus, which cause symptoms similar to human flu—sneezing, coughing, fever, and lethargy.

Recognizing Symptoms of Feline Respiratory Infections

Though human flu and feline respiratory disease share overlapping signs, key differences exist:

• Sneezing and nasal discharge: Often clearer than human mucus
  
• Eye discharge: Watery or pus-like, especially with herpesvirus
  
• Loss of appetite and fever: Cats may hide or refuse food
  
• Rapid breathing or wheezing: Indicates serious infection
  

If symptoms persist more than 24–48 hours, consult a vet immediately. Early intervention prevents complications, particularly in kittens, seniors, or immunocompromised cats.

How to Protect Your Cat from Respiratory Illness

Prevention is the strongest defense. Follow these steps to reduce infection risk:

• Avoid close contact with sick people, especially those with respiratory symptoms.
  
• Practice good hygiene: Wash hands before handling your cat or pet supplies.
  
• Keep your cat indoors, especially during flu season (winter in temperate zones).
  
• Vaccinate regularly: Core vaccines like FVRCP protect against feline herpesvirus and calicivirus.
  
• Minimize exposure in multi-pet households: Quarantine new or sick pets until cleared by a vet.
  

When to Seek Veterinary Care

Not all cat illnesses resolve on their own. Seek professional help if your cat shows:

• Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
  
• Refusal to eat or drink for over 24 hours
  
• High fever (above 103.5°F or 39.7°C)
  
• Severe lethargy or hiding for more than 12 hours
  

Veterinarians can confirm diagnoses through tests and prescribe antivirals or supportive care, such as fluids and antibiotics for secondary infections.

Final Thoughts: Keep Your Cat Healthy and Happy

While your flu won’t infect your cat, respiratory illnesses can spread between cats—and some viruses are serious. Stay informed, practice prevention, and act quickly if symptoms appear. Your vigilance ensures your feline companion stays healthy and protected.
Take action today: schedule your cat’s annual checkup and update their vaccinations to safeguard against preventable illnesses.