We all have childhood memories of having a cold, being congested, and our moms dragging out and plugging in the humidifier to loosen up the congestion and help us breathe. In fact, most of us have done it for our kids. However, as pet parents, is using a humidifier for a cat safe? Will a humidifier help a congested cat?
The answer is yes, it is safe to use a humidifier, and it will help with your cat’s congestion. We’ll give you the signs of a cat cold and tell you more about how to take care of it below.
What Is a Cat Cold?
Much like a human cold, a cat cold produces similar signs. It is about the same as a human cold, but it’s caused by a virus that affects felines. Your kitty will be miserable, and a humidifier can help.
What Are the Signs of a Cat Cold?
Here are a few signs that you should watch out for if you think your cat might be catching a cat cold.
- Coughing
- Sneezing
- Discharge from the nose
- Fever
- Congestion
- Extreme tiredness
These effects usually go away within 7 to 10 days. If they continue after the 7 to 10 days, it’s time to contact your vet to figure out what’s going on with your feline pal.
How to Treat Your Cat’s Cold & Congestion
You already know that a humidifier can help to relieve the congestion your cat is suffering from. However, what if you don’t have a humidifier? We’ll give you a few tips on treating congestion in your furry friend.
- When you take a shower, let your cat into the bathroom with you. The natural humidity from the hot water should help the congestion.
- Reduce your cat’s stress by ensuring it’s in a safe, warm, dry place with all its food and toys nearby.
- Keep your cat inside until the cold has run its duration.
- Contact your vet if the signs persist longer than they should.
Is a Humidifier Safe for My Cat?
Yes, humidifiers are safe to use around your cat. The ultrasonic cool humidifiers are safer to use since they don’t have heating elements. Just plug in the humidifier in an area where your cat can’t knock it over, and let the healing begin.
Final Thoughts
Humidifiers help quite a bit with humans when they are congested, and they do the same for felines with cat colds, congestion, and other respiratory conditions. If your cat’s condition worsens over time, it’s best to make an appointment with your vet to determine if there’s another underlying cause for your cat’s congestion.
Cats get colds just as humans do. The best thing you can do for your cat is to relieve the congestion, keep it indoors until the cold has run its course, and keep the cat in a safe, cozy, comfortable, dry space until it’s feeling better. Don’t forget the love and pampering, and soon your cat should be good as new.
Featured Image Credit: Marina Demeshko,Shutterstock
