Upper respiratory infections cost $50-$100 for exam, $100-$400 for treatment. Feline herpesvirus and calicivirus cause most cases. Healthy cats usually recover, but kittens and immunocompromised cats risk serious complications. Herpesvirus is lifelong with potential flare-ups.
Feline herpesvirus (FHV-1) and calicivirus (FCV) cause 80-90% of cases. Spread via direct contact, sneezing, contaminated surfaces. Bacterial co-infections (Chlamydia, Bordetella, Mycoplasma) can follow. Multi-cat environments have higher rates.
Sneezing + runny nose are the classic signs. Also: watery eyes, congestion, mouth breathing, appetite loss, fever, lethargy. Calicivirus adds mouth ulcers and drooling. Kittens may develop eye ulcers.
Physical exam ($50-$100) usually sufficient - symptoms distinctive. PCR testing ($100-$200) identifies virus if needed. Chest X-rays ($150-$250) if pneumonia suspected. Blood work ($100-$200) for severe cases. Average $50-$200.
Supportive care: keep cat eating/drinking comfortably. Antibiotics ($30-$60) for secondary infections. Antiviral drops/lysine ($20-$40). Anti-inflammatory/pain meds ($20-$40). Severe cases with hospitalization $500-$1,500. Average $100-$400.
Mild cases: $100-$300. Severe cases with complications: $500-$1,500 including hospitalization.
Flat-faced breeds (Persians, Himalayans) are more susceptible due to narrowed airways. Siamese and Scottish Folds also at higher risk.
Most healthy cats recover in 7-21 days. Kittens and immunocompromised cats take longer. Herpesvirus remains dormant for life with potential flare-ups.
Core FVRCP vaccine protects against herpesvirus and calicivirus. Keep new cats isolated for 2 weeks. Vaccination is the best prevention.
02/04
Mild cases: $100-$300.
Most policies cover URI diagnosis and treatment. Standard 14-day waiting period applies. Vet exams, meds, diagnostics, and hospitalization typically covered.
One documented URI denies all future claims as pre-existing. Since herpesvirus is lifelong, a single episode can block coverage for all flare-ups. Enroll before symptoms appear.
Simple URIs: $100-$400. Complicated cases (pneumonia, eye ulcers, hospitalization): $500-$1,500. Insurance best for severe complications. Recurring flare-ups add up.
Some policies require current FVRCP vaccination. Unvaccinated cats may have claims denied as preventable. Keep records up to date.
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