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My husband and I just adopted a one year old Siamese ...

Sent to Cat Experts December 7 2007 at 1:11 PM
   

My husband and I just adopted a one year old Siamese from the SFSPCA. He took to our other two Maine Coone mixes well, and they to him. They spent a few days playing quite happily. Now our older cats (about seven yrs) are both lethargic and making mild hacking/coughing noises, though not convulsively as if about to gack. I wonder if there is any chance our new kitty gave them something? His little info packet states he was tested negative for FIV, and given BASIC vaccinations.

Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Status:  Closed   Value: $15
Info Request
December 7 2007 at 1:18 PM (6 minutes and 29 seconds later)
         
Hi There!
Thanks for rescuing this kitty! All cats carry Upper Respiratory Infection virus on their fur, and it is possible that your new baby brought one in that your other two were not able to fight off. (they are used to what they are carrying, themselves, but their bodies may not have developed an antibody for what the newcomer may be carrying). Don't panic...you'll get through it, but I do have a few questions about your other two...are they eating and drinking okay?
Using the litter box normally?
Any discharge from the nose or eyes, and if so is it clear?

Standing by to help you...
Reani

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Reani -- Cat Care Expert -- 100% Positive Feedback on 1164 Cat Accepts
20+ years experience with Cat Care and behavior problems, 3 years Pet Rescue
Reply
December 7 2007 at 1:26 PM (7 minutes and 53 seconds later)
         
Hi, thanks for being so quick! Bentley (I call him Bentlers) and his brother Charley are about a day behind one another in their symptoms. Charley has lost interest in food, and Bentley is getting there. They are drinking somewhat, but it's kind of like when a person doesn't feel well and doesn't eat or drink or get up because she's trying to sleep it off. Bentley had a little discharge from his eyes about a week prior to Colton's arrival. It must oxidize pretty quickly, and dries quickly, thus a bit dark. But no eye swelling. I just noticed that Colton has a little oxidized crustiness next to one nostril. His notes said he had a sneeze a few weeks back, just after he was neutered.
Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Answer
December 7 2007 at 1:32 PM (6 minutes and 22 seconds later)
         
ACCEPTEDCheck Mark
Great! Thanks for the info.
Since they are not eating well it would be a good idea to have them seen by a vet for a round of anitbioitcs. While a cold in itself is not cause for a vet visit, the secondary infections that can set in are, and that is what the antibiotics are for. Any color discharge other than clear indicate infection. Not eating is also a sign they need meds, and if they go too long without food then liver problems can set in especially if they are overweight. Try bringing them into a steamy bathroom to help clear their noses and then try to feed them.
How long has it been since they ate well? If it has been more than 2 days I would get tem in tomorrow, any more than a week, I would get them in tonight. If their skin between their shoulderblades does not snap right back when you pinch it, they are dehydrated and should go tonight as well.

You might call the SFSPCA to see if they are willing to assist you with the vet, as they may have a vet there that is willing to help at a reduced cost.

Please let me know how they do!

Warmest Wishes,
Reani

I hope that I have been helpful. Please let me know that I have by accepting my answer. Feedback is always appreciated as are bonuses! I will be happy to answer any follow up questions! Thank you!
Picture
Reani -- Cat Care Expert -- 100% Positive Feedback on 1164 Cat Accepts
20+ years experience with Cat Care and behavior problems, 3 years Pet Rescue
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