If you’ve ever noticed your dog sneezing nonstop or your cat acting sluggish with watery eyes, you might wonder: Can pets catch a cold like humans do? While dogs and cats don’t get the common cold exactly the way people do, they can develop upper respiratory infections that look and feel very similar - and some require veterinary attention.
Understanding the difference between a mild illness and a more serious condition can help you protect your pet’s health and comfort.
Can Dogs and Cats Get Colds?
Pets don’t catch human colds, but they can develop viral or bacterial respiratory infections that cause similar symptoms. These infections affect the nose, throat, and airways and may spread between animals, especially in places like boarding facilities, grooming salons, or shelters.
Common examples include:
Dogs: Canine infectious respiratory disease complex (often called kennel cough)
Cats: Feline upper respiratory infections
While many cases are mild, some can progress without proper care—especially in young, senior, or immunocompromised pets.
Common Cold-Like Symptoms in Pets
Watch for these signs, which may indicate a respiratory infection:
Sneezing or coughing
Runny or stuffy nose
Watery or red eyes
Lethargy or decreased energy
Reduced appetite
Mild fever
Noisy or labored breathing
If symptoms are mild and short-lived, your pet may recover with rest and monitoring. However, worsening or persistent signs should never be ignored.
Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore (When to See a Vet)
Some cold-like symptoms in pets are signs that veterinary care is needed sooner rather than later. Thick yellow or green discharge from the nose or eyes, difficulty breathing, open-mouth breathing in cats, or coughing that lasts more than a few days can indicate a more serious infection. A pet that refuses to eat or drink, develops a fever, or becomes extremely lethargic or weak should also be examined by a veterinarian. If symptoms persist longer than seven to ten days or worsen at any point, it’s important to schedule a veterinary visit to prevent complications such as pneumonia or chronic respiratory issues.
How Preventive Care Helps Protect Your Pet
Preventive care is one of the most effective ways to protect your pet from respiratory illnesses and other health concerns. Routine wellness exams allow your veterinarian to identify subtle changes in breathing, energy levels, or immune health that may otherwise go unnoticed at home. Staying current on vaccinations helps reduce the risk of contagious respiratory infections, especially for pets that interact with other animals. Preventive care also includes nutritional guidance, parasite prevention, and early detection of underlying conditions that can make pets more vulnerable to illness. By maintaining regular wellness visits, you give your pet the best chance to stay healthy and recover quickly if illness does occur.
What You Can Do at Home
For mild symptoms, supportive care may help:
Ensure your pet stays hydrated
Provide a warm, comfortable resting space
Keep them away from other pets to prevent spreading illness
Avoid over-the-counter human medications unless directed by a veterinarian
Never assume symptoms will resolve on their own - monitor closely and contact your vet if anything worsens.
Schedule Your Pet’s Wellness Exam Today at Highland Veterinary Clinic
While pets don’t get human colds, cold-like symptoms can still signal infections that need attention. Knowing what’s normal, what’s concerning, and when to seek care can make a big difference in your pet’s recovery. Preventive care and routine wellness exams are key to catching problems early and keeping your pet feeling their best year-round.
If your pet is showing cold-like symptoms or it’s time for their routine wellness exam, contact Highland Veterinary Clinic today. Contact our office in Evansville, Indiana, by calling (812) 710-4300 today.
