Home > Shop By Condition > Respiratory Infections & Breathing Problems > Cat Upper Respiratory Infections (URIs)

Home Remedies For Cat Upper Respiratory Infections (URIs)


A feline upper respiratory infection or cat sinus infection is often referred to as a cat cold. The symptoms are similar to a common cold in humans. It can affect the upper part of the airway: throat, trachea, nasal cavities and bronchi. Cat rhinitis is the inflammation of the nose and sinusitis is the inflammation of the nasal passages. Natural cat rhinitis and cat sinus infection home treatment can help relieve congestion, reduce discharge and help your kitty breathe better.


Sinus Infection in Cats Home Remedies

Need Help? Contact Us At Support@AskAriel.com

Natural Remedies for Upper Respiratory Infections in Cats


While conventional veterinary medical options are limited, home remedies for cat upper respiratory infections can make a significant improvement in the cat's life. Cats with viruses may have many of the same symptoms as cats with URIs.

When dealing with an upper respiratory infection in cats, home treatment with a holistic approach encompasses a two-fold approach: changing your cat's diet to strengthen the immune system and using a few supportive supplements to control the virus. It is essential for cat owners who have a cat with a viral infection to keep antiviral supplements on hand in the event of a flare-up.



Immune & Respiratory Support Kit - The Immune & Respiratory Support Kit in an effective treatment for cats with URIs, sinus congestion, sneezing, viruses, sores and coughing.

  • Easy to use drops (with minimal smell and taste - no alcohol).
  • Fight infections to reduce nasal discharge and sneezing.
  • Clears up nasal and sinus congestion to help and improve breathing.
  • Gentle, natural remedies that can safely be used on an ongoing basis.
  • Acts as an immune booster for cats with chronic sinus infections.
  • Contains three natural remedies that provide relief by calming infection and inflammation.

  • The natural remedies in the Immune & Respiratory Support Kit can also be purchased individually. Please click on the links below for more detailed information about each product.


    NOT Drops - NOT Drops help control harmful bacteria and restore gut flora balance, improving your cat's immune function. Acts like natural antibiotics for cat respiratory infections.

    QUENT Drops - Natural antiviral for cats. QUENT Drops target the lung and upper respiratory system. QUENT and NOT Drops work synergistically to control infections and inflammation.

    Silver Immune Support - An all-natural at-home treatment for feline upper respiratory infections. Helps your cat recover from a bacterial infection or viral flare-up. It is a broad-spectrum antimicrobial and well tolerated even by tiny pets.



    Power Probiotic - Backed by scientific research, this powerful multi-strain formula promotes the growth of friendly bacteria, which are essential to a healthy immune system. Why is this important? The majority of your pet's immune system resides in the intestinal tract. Using Power Probiotic is essential if your pet has taken steroids or antibiotics, as these medications reduce the population of friendly bacteria. Friendly bacteria fight off pathogens, bad bacteria and viruses in an effort to keep your cat healthy. Power Probiotic is essential for all pets. The powder from the capsule can be sprinkled on food or eaten by itself. Many cats love the taste.



    Happy Paws Drops - Just a few drops of this anti-inflammatory oil can provide soothing relief for cat upper respiratory symptoms. Happy Paws Hemp Oil can help to reduce the inflammation associated with chronic sinus infections in cats. Cat CBD oil also provides calming and can balance general well-being. Each 1oz bottle contains 550mg of full-spectrum hemp extract in an unflavored all-natural coconut oil base. 100% organic. Made in the USA.





    Olive Leaf Extract For Pets - A natural antiviral and antibacterial herbal remedy that has been used since ancient times to support a healthy immune system. It is helpful for cats with respiratory conditions including asthma, chronic upper respiratory infections (URIs), allergies, viruses and sinus infections. There is significant scientific research on the effectiveness of Olive Leaf Extract against multiple types of bacteria that can cause respiratory infections. Olive Leaf Extract for Pet's active ingredient, oleuropein, helps fight against pathogens while causing no harm to healthy bacteria in your pet's gut and mucous membranes. It contains protective polyphenols to help improve immune function and offer powerful antioxidant protection. Olive Leaf Extract For Pets is a simple, one-ingredient formula that is helpful for a variety of immune and respiratory conditions. Made in the USA.


    Immune Harmony - This product contains a unique patented plant sterol formula that provides long-term immune support. It’s very helpful for cats with viruses, chronic infections, allergies and autoimmune conditions. Rather than overstimulating your cat's immune system, this wonderful product helps to balance immune function. Immune Harmony helps to modulate the immune system and supports long-term immune health. While home remedies for cat upper respiratory infections can alleviate some symptoms, using Immune Harmony can provide long-term immune support and help prevent reinfection.

    What Is A Feline Upper Respiratory Infection (URI)?


    URIs in cats are highly contagious. They can occur in any cat but are more frequent in shelters and enclosed environments. Nasal and eye secretions from an infected cat can be spread by direct contact, such as grooming, hissing and playing, and also by environmental exposure such as with food bowls, brushes and litter boxes.

    If your cat is congested, it may lose interest in food and water. It is very important to keep your kitty well fed and hydrated. A typical cat sinus infection or URI resolves in one to three weeks when given supportive care that helps the immune system overcome the virus.

    Some cats suffer from chronic URIs. It can be discouraging to watch your cat suffer long-term and there may be bouts of hope as the symptoms wax and wane. The virus will remain in the body but will go dormant until reactivated by stressful situations, such as a move to a new home or the addition of a new pet to the family. While chronic URIs can be caused by a suppressed immune system, it is important to have your cat tested for feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) or feline leukemia virus (FeLV).



    Symptoms of Feline Upper Respiratory Infections


  • Sneezing
  • Nasal congestion
  • Conjunctivitis
  • Fever
  • Discharge from the nose or eyes
  • Lack of appetite


  • Cat Sneezing


    Has your cat been sneezing? An occasional sneeze is normal, but if your kitty has ongoing sneezing, then please contact your veterinarian. Frequent sneezing is typically a sign of infection, whether it be viral, fungal or bacterial. Cats with viruses such as herpes are more prone to URIs. If any of the following clinical signs are present, in addition to the sneezing, a veterinarian visit may be necessary:

  • Runny or squinting eyes
  • Nasal discharge
  • Pawing at the face
  • Difficulty chewing food
  • Drooling
  • Bloody discharge from the nose
  • Noisy breathing or difficulty breathing
  • Dehydration

  • The sneezing may be due to airborne allergens (pollen, dust), foreign material in the nasal passage, upper respiratory infections (herpesvirus, calicivirus), pneumonia or cancer. Cats don't have to be on antibiotics all the time. A few holistic cat sneezing remedies combined with feeding a hypoallergenic, low-carbohydrate diet can be life-changing for your kitty.

    Cat Sinus Infections (Sinusitis) & Rhinitis


    Two common conditions that cause cat breathing problems and nasal discharge are rhinitis and sinusitis. Rhinitis is the inflammation of the cat’s nose, and sinusitis is the inflammation of the nasal passages. If the nasal discharge is coming from both sides of the nose, it is usually viral or bacterial. When discharge is in just one side, it may be fungal, nasal polyps or tooth root abscess. Sinus infections can also occur as a symptom of a weakened immune system due to an underlying viral condition. Veterinarians may prescribe antibiotics in case your cat's cold is bacterial in nature. Our natural cat rhinitis home treatment (supplements and diet changes) can be used in conjunction to help to prevent flare-ups and recurrence. If your cat has been diagnosed with a feline virus, there is so much you can do to help using a holistic approach. Please click on this link for our holistic treatments for feline viruses.


    Feline Asthma


    Feline asthma is the most commonly diagnosed respiratory disease. Asthma symptoms can be similar to chronic bronchitis and even sometimes mistaken for hairballs. If your cat has been diagnosed with asthma, there is so much you can do to help using a holistic approach. Please click on this link for our holistic treatments for cats with asthma.



    The Best Diet for Cats With Upper Respiratory Infections & Sinus Infections


    To strengthen your cat's immunity, feeding a grain-free, hypoallergenic, low-carbohydrate diet with a novel protein is helpful. Many quality pet foods, even "holistic brands," contain too many starchy carbohydrates that convert to sugar, weakening your cat's immune system. Changing your cat's diet can help it feel better. Grains can contribute to long-term inflammation (please see food allergy articles).

    Please include your cat's diet on the order form at checkout. We will review your cat's information and include a FREE diet tips on the packing slip that comes with your order.




    Need Help?


    If you have questions, please feel free to email us at Support@AskAriel.com
    . We will be happy to provide you with additional information about our natural remedies for upper respiratory infections, but please know that due to veterinary regulations, we cannot provide individualized consultative advice without a physical exam.