You know your pets can get sick. What you may not know is that cats and dogs can get a cold or flu, just like us. Let’s take a closer look at the signs and symptoms, treatment and prevention, to keep our pets happy and healthy.

Signs/Symptoms to Watch For

Colds
When a cat or dog catches a cold, they will experience many of the same symptoms as humans—runny nose, congestion, coughing/sneezing, watery eyes and lethargy (napping more and showing low energy).

The Flu
Flu symptoms in our pets are less similar to those of humans, and differ between cats and dogs. Signs your cat has the flu include runny eyes and nose, sneezing, loss of voice, fever and mouth ulcers.

Dogs may have a fever or cough that lasts 1 to 3 weeks, decreased appetite, fatigue or a greenish discharge from the nose and eyes. For dogs in particular, a flu diagnosis can be tricky because the canine viruses mimic those of the more common kennel cough and other more serious ailments like pneumonia, heart disease or even some types of cancer.

Important Note: Cats and dogs have species specific cold and flu viruses that cannot be passed to humans. Similarly, human viruses are specific to humans and cannot be passed to cats or dogs.

How to Treat Your Pet If They Get a Cold/Flu

If your dog or cat is displaying signs of having a cold or flu, assess the situation. If they are eating, drinking and remain active, it is likely you can ease their discomfort at home. Encourage your pet to rest, eat and drink plenty of water, so their immune system has the resources to fight off the infection. Wipe their eyes and nose with a warm, damp cloth to keep them comfortable. Use a humidifier or keep your pet in the bathroom while you run a hot shower. Do not give your pet over-the-counter cold/flu remedies for humans without first consulting your veterinarian.

The symptoms of a cold or flu can look very similar to more serious diseases. Contact your veterinarian to schedule an appointment if your pet:

• Is not eating and drinking
• Appears to be uncomfortable/in pain
• Has difficulty breathing
• Symptoms are not improving within a week

The vet can determine if your pet’s congestion, sneezing or other symptoms are cold and flu related, or something else, such as pneumonia, allergens or a fungal infection.

If your veterinarian diagnoses your pet with a cold or flu, they might prescribe antibiotics, cough suppressants, decongestants or anti-inflammatories to make your pet feel better and speed up their recovery.

Prevention

The two best ways to prevent colds and the flu in your cats and dogs are as follows:

1. Stay away from other sick animals. If possible, isolate sick pets from healthy ones, as colds/flu can be very contagious. Keep your eyes and ears open for mentions of outbreaks of diseases in your community. During those times, avoid taking your dog to places where other dogs congregate.
2. Stay up-to-date on vaccinations. Vaccinations are available to help safeguard dogs from severe disease caused by flu viruses, as well as in instances where they may be at a higher risk of catching the flu, such as in outbreak areas, at a kennel or at a dog show.

Optimum Combinations for an Immunity Boost

Several of our Optimum Combinations provide an immunity boost, helping your pet to fight off a cold. Pairing flaxseed with turmeric (in T22), for example, provides your pet with a rich source of Omega-3 fatty acids and curcumin, boosting the production of antioxidants to improve the overall immune response and supporting a strong immune system.

Other Optimum Combinations that offer an immunity boost to help keep your pet healthy include:

• Salmon oil and turmeric (T24)
• Salmon oil and rosemary (I19, I20)
• Blueberries and blackberries (T25, T28)
• Pomegranate and raspberries (T27)
• Pomegranate and turmeric (S2, S7)
• Pomegranate and green tea (S10)

The pairing of these superior ingredients, that work better together, also support your pet’s total well-being. To learn more about how they benefit our pets, read more about our Optimum Combinations here.

Be sure to view our full lineup of products on our website and discover all 22 Optimum Combinations™.

Discover our Optimum Combinations

Keep an eye on your pet for signs of a cold or flu. No one likes to be sick, but if you recognize the symptoms, you may be able to keep your cat or dog a little more comfortable, and as always if you’re unsure, take your pet to the vet. Stay healthy!