Runny eyes. A snuffly nose. A cat who's turned their nose up at dinner.

If your cat has cat flu, it can look and sound worse than it is. Here's what's actually going on, and how to tell when it's time to get help.

What is cat flu?

Cat flu isn't one specific illness. It's the name given to a group of viral infections that affect a cat's upper respiratory tract, most commonly feline herpesvirus and feline calicivirus. Both spread easily between cats through sneezing, shared bowls, or close contact, which is why it tends to show up in multi-cat households, catteries and shelters.

Common symptoms

• Sneezing
• Watery or crusty eyes
• A runny or blocked nose
• Mouth ulcers (more common with calicivirus)
• Going off their food
• Low energy
• A mild temperature

Symptoms usually appear within two to ten days of exposure.

How serious is it?

For most healthy adult cats, especially those who are vaccinated, cat flu clears up on its own within one to two weeks with rest and a bit of extra care. It's unpleasant, but rarely dangerous.

Kittens, elderly cats, and cats with weaker immune systems are more at risk of complications, including secondary infections or pneumonia. These groups are worth watching more closely.

What to do at home

• Keep them warm and comfortable, and away from other cats while they're contagious
• Gently wipe away any discharge from their eyes and nose with a clean, damp cloth
• Encourage them to eat. Warming wet food slightly can help, as a blocked nose often means they can't smell it properly
• Make sure they're still drinking

When to get help sooner

Get advice the same day if your cat:

• Is a kitten, elderly, or has an existing health condition
• Hasn't eaten anything for more than 24 hours
• Has eyes that are swollen shut, or is struggling to breathe
• Seems unusually lethargic or unresponsive