Cat Flu in Cats & Kittens (Feline Upper Respiratory Infection)
Cat Flu is a common upper–respiratory condition that affects cats of all ages, but it is especially challenging for kittens, elderly cats, and those with lowered immunity. Despite the name, it is not the same as human influenza and does not spread to people.
Cat flu is usually caused by a combination of viruses and bacteria that target the nose, throat, eyes, and upper airways. These organisms are highly contagious between cats, especially in multi-cat environments, shelters, catteries, or outdoor colonies.
These conditions may be associated with various viral and bacterial factors, and they tend to affect the nose, throat, eyes, and overall comfort of the animal.
Many cats experience signs such as:
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Sneezing
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Nasal or eye discharge
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Reduced appetite
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Low energy
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Mouth or gum irritation
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Watery or sore eyes
Limping Kitten Syndrome
Some kittens experiencing upper respiratory involvement may also show temporary limping or shifting-leg discomfort. This is sometimes reported in association with certain viral exposures, particularly feline calicivirus, but it does not occur in every case. Limping episodes may come and go, and they usually present alongside other flu-like signs.
Viruses Commonly Linked With Cat Flu
Cat flu may involve several well-known feline respiratory viruses. These may include:
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Feline Calicivirus (FCV) — sometimes linked with mouth ulcers, sneezing, or occasional limping in kittens.
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Feline Herpesvirus (FHV-1) — often associated with eye, nose, and throat irritation.
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Other viral contributors such as EPV or CMV-type strains may also be referenced in some discussions around feline respiratory discomfort.
These viruses may vary greatly in how they affect individual cats—some experience very mild signs, while others may have more noticeable discomfort.
How Cat Flu Spreads
Kittens, stressed animals, and those with lowered natural defences may be more susceptible.
Support & Husbandry Care
General supportive care can be very helpful during recovery. This may include:
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Offering warm, aromatic foods to stimulate appetite
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Keeping the environment warm and stress-free
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Using a humidifier or steamy bathroom sessions to ease congestion
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Gently cleaning nasal or eye discharge
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Ensuring hydration
Ongoing Considerations
Many cats who experience cat flu may have recurring flare-ups, especially during stress or weather changes. A focus on comfort, calm routines, and general wellbeing often helps reduce irritation and promote recovery.
Common Signs to Watch For
Cats with cat flu may show a variety of symptoms such as:
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Sneezing and nasal congestion
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Runny eyes or eye inflammation
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Loss of appetite or reduced drinking
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Mouth or throat discomfort
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Fever or lethargy
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Drooling, difficulty swallowing, or foul breath
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Noisy breathing due to blocked nasal passages
Kittens may be more severely affected because they can dehydrate quickly or struggle to breathe when congested.
Why It Matters
While many cats recover, cat flu can become more serious when:
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A young kitten is involved
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An older cat has lowered immunity
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There is dehydration, poor appetite, or laboured breathing
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Eye involvement becomes severe
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The cat has stress or another underlying condition
Some cats may continue to experience mild flare-ups throughout life, especially during stress or cold weather.
Supportive Care Insight (Educational Only)
Cats recovering from cat flu often benefit from:
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A warm, stress-free environment
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Gentle cleaning of eyes and nose
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Encouraging drinking and soft, aromatic foods
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Reducing household stress
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Minimising exposure to infected cats or overcrowded environments
These are general wellness measures and not a substitute for veterinary guidance.
When Veterinary Care Is Important
Immediate veterinary attention is recommended if a cat has:
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Difficulty breathing
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Eye ulceration (cloudy, painful, or half-closed eye)
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No food intake for 24 hours
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Severe lethargy or dehydration
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Kittens showing rapid decline
A vet can assess the severity and provide appropriate care based on the cat’s condition.
* Natural pet botanicals are not intended to replace veterinary care or medication.
SET OF
This blend has been traditionally associated with supporting immune balance, resilience, and comfort in cats and kittens. Practitioners have historically considered it in presentations described as cat flu, upper respiratory imbalance (URI), limping kitten syndrome, and conditions linked with Feline Calici Virus, Feline Herpes Virus (FHV-1, FVR), EPV, and CMV.
Practitioner Advisory – Yeast Overgrowth Support
Your vet or yourself may notice or be told of a yeast overgrowth imbalance in your pet. In traditional practice, this has been described as a state of excess dampness or systemic imbalance.
On request, 211-2 formula, which may be combined with the 219-2 Mix, a pairing historically associated with resilience, cleansing, and supporting balance when systemic stress is present.
“Echinacea purpurea root is traditionally used to support natural immune function and soothe the mucous membranes of the nose, throat, and upper respiratory tract.”
SET OF 6
1. Feline RespiroGuard 219-1 formula 50ml
2. Feline Respiratory Ease Herbs 219-2 200ml
3. Liposomal Vitamin C LIQUID 100ml
4. Slippery Elm Powder Packet
5. Sinus Aid 27-1-A-B formula *Complimentary
6. Fluid Balance 72-2 formula
Contains:
Formula 1.
Eyebright (Euphrasia MM) is traditionally associated with clarity, vision, and renewal, symbolising brightness and balance.
Anas barbaria (Oscillococcinum 30C) carries historical links to resilience and adaptability, traditionally valued for supporting natural strength and vitality.
Phosphate of Potassium (Kali Phos 12X) is traditionally connected with calm, stability, and restorative balance, symbolising clarity and resilience.
Chamaeleon minerale (Merc Sol 30X, 1M) has historical associations with transformation and adaptability, symbolising flexibility and renewal.
Carbon-Sulphur-Kali-Nitricum (Gunpowder 1M) is traditionally valued for vitality and fortification, symbolising strength and renewal.
Eyebright whole plant (Euphrasia perf 1M) carries traditional associations with light, clarity, and focus, symbolising vision and restoration.
Phosphate of Potassium (Kali Phos 6X) is historically linked with reassurance, grounding, and calm balance, symbolising steady energy and clarity.
Chamaeleon minerale (Merc Sol 30X, 1M) again reflects its traditional connection with transformation, adaptability, and resilience, symbolising the capacity to adjust and restore balance.
in 20% USP alc. in purified water.
Reference: https://thenaturopathicherbalist.com/herbs/d-f/euphrasia-officinalis-eyebright/
Reference: https://www.medicinenet.com/eyebright
Formula 2.
Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) has been valued in traditional systems for soothing properties and supporting wellness, particularly in times of stress.
Reference: http://cms.herbalgram.org/expandedE/Licoriceroot.html
Purple Cone Flower (Echinacea Purpurea Root) is well known in traditional herbal use for supporting immune system strength and resilience, particularly during seasonal changes. Echinacea purpurea root is traditionally used to support natural immune function and soothe the mucous membranes of the nose, throat, and upper respiratory tract.
Marshmallow Root
Mullein Leaf
Olive leaf
Elderflowers
in purified water & 30%-40% USP alc.
3. Liposomal Vitamin C
Essential Nutrient — Vitamin C is one of the body’s most important vitamins, known for supporting overall wellbeing, energy, and balance.
Tradition of Freshness — For generations, Vitamin C–rich foods like citrus fruits have been linked with vitality, brightness, and resilience.
Modern Liposomal Form — In liposomal form, Vitamin C is encased in tiny, natural spheres that help deliver it smoothly and gently through the body.
Liquid Convenience — Easy to take, mix, or measure, making daily support simple for the whole family.
Everyday Wellness — Often associated with skin health, energy, and renewal, Vitamin C is a daily companion in maintaining balance and vibrancy.
Note: This information is provided for general educational purposes. Vitamin C is part of a balanced lifestyle and diet.
Product 4.
Slippery Elm Bark (Ulmus rubra) Powder
This product contains 100% pure, natural powdered inner bark of Ulmus rubra, traditionally valued for its gentle, soothing qualities. For centuries, the inner bark was prepared as a gruel or tea, where it was appreciated for providing a soft, mucilaginous coating that offered comfort to the digestive system. In traditional wellness practices, slippery elm was also linked with supporting throat and respiratory ease, and was regarded as a nourishing food during times of convalescence. Its mild, earthy taste and naturally smooth texture made it a versatile addition to recipes and herbal blends. Today, slippery elm remains a respected ingredient in natural wellness traditions, often blended into warm water, smoothies, or functional recipes. Widely available in health food stores, supermarkets, and selected pharmacies, it continues to be valued as a gentle, nurturing option with a long history of traditional use.
Formula 5. *Complimentary
Sulphide of Calcium (Hepar sulphuris 6X) is traditionally associated with cleansing and purification, with historical use in European folk practices where minerals like sulphur and lime were valued for their protective and restorative qualities.
Golden Seal (Hydrastis canadensis 6X) has been regarded in traditional herbalism as a plant linked to vitality and resilience, with strong cultural associations as a botanical symbol of strength in Native American traditions. Marigold (Calendula officinalis 3X, 1M) has long been treasured in European and Mediterranean traditions as a flower of protection and renewal, celebrated for its bright blossoms and symbolic connection to harmony and recovery.
Cat-thyme (Teucrium marum verum 30C) was historically valued in traditional European gardens for its aromatic qualities and was symbolically connected with energy and clarity.
Iodide of Potassium (Kali hydriodicum 1M) reflects the deep historical association of minerals with balance and stability, often connected to elemental traditions in natural healing systems.
Seneca Snake-root (Senega 200C) has been linked to Native American practices where it was considered a strengthening root, connected with resilience and stamina.
Pasque Flower (Pulsatilla nigricans 200C) has long been associated with gentleness and change in European traditions, where its soft blooms symbolized adaptability and seasonal renewal.
Purple Coneflower (Echinacea 200C) is regarded in Native American traditions as a plant of strength, often linked to fortitude and protective qualities.
Pure Flint (Silica 200X) carries deep symbolic ties to grounding, endurance, and stability, reflecting its historical place as a mineral connected with resilience.
Sponge Cucumber (Luffa operculata 30C) has been valued in traditional systems of healing for its cleansing associations and was symbolically tied to clarity and purification. Blood-leaf (Sanguinaria 6X, 1M) has cultural connections in Native American herbal traditions where it was regarded as a plant of transformation and strength.
Ferric Phosphate (Ferrum phosphoricum 3X, 6X, 1M) reflects the traditional regard for iron-based minerals in supporting vitality, resilience, and balance.
Blessed Thistle (Carduus benedictus 200C) has long been revered in European monastic traditions as a sacred plant, celebrated for its symbolic associations with renewal and protection.
Potassium Sulphate (Kalium sulphuricum 200C) is tied to historical mineral traditions where sulphur compounds were connected to warmth, movement, and balance.
Common Red Onion Seed (Allium cepa 1M) has been linked through traditional folk practices with renewal and vitality, with onions symbolizing strength and cleansing across cultures.
Chloride of Antimony (Antimonium muriaticum 200C) carries historical connections with mineral alchemy, where antimony was symbolically associated with transformation and protection.
Spurge Olive (Mezereum 200C) has been tied to traditional European lore where it symbolized purification and strength.
Anas barbaria (Oscillococcinum 200C) is regarded in more modern natural traditions as a substance associated with balance and resilience, particularly during seasonal challenges.
Ragweed (Ambrosia artemisiifolia 200C) has been part of Native American practices, historically tied to seasonal cycles and adaptation.
Eye-bright (Euphrasia 200C) has long been connected with clarity and vision in European traditions, symbolizing renewal and perception.
Lung-wort (Sticta pulmonaria 200C) was named for its symbolic resemblance to the lungs and was linked with vitality and breath in early European herbals.
Balsam of Copaiva (Copaiva 200C) has a long tradition in South American cultures where resins were valued for their grounding and restorative symbolism.
Potassium Chloride (Kali muriaticum 3X) has been historically connected with mineral balance and stability within natural healing traditions.
Permanganate of Potash (Kalium permanganicum 200C) reflects the symbolic value of mineral compounds in transformation and purification practices.
Skookum Limechen Chuck (Skookum chuck 200C) carries its name from Native American traditions of the Pacific Northwest, where it was symbolically tied to vitality and cleansing.
Beetroot (Beta vulgaris 200C) has a long history of symbolic use in European cultures, where its deep red color was associated with vitality, strength, and grounding.
Calcium Carbonate (Calcarea carbonica 200C) has been traditionally linked with stability, endurance, and growth, reflecting its role as a fundamental mineral in natural balance.
Blood-leaf (Sanguinaria 200C) is again connected with symbolic themes of transformation, protection, and vitality.
Cat-thyme (Teucrium marum verum 6C, 30C) has traditional links to vitality and cleansing, regarded as a supportive garden plant with aromatic qualities.
Aurum foliatum (Aurum metallicum 6X, 10X, 12X, 30C) reflects the deep cultural and symbolic association of gold with illumination, strength, and enduring vitality.
Nasal Polyps: (only able to breath through the mouth) causing blocked nose with loss of smell, sneezing, nasal polyps, blocked nose, right or left side polyps.
Calcium Carbonate (Calcarea carbonica 12X) has been traditionally regarded for its grounding and stabilizing qualities, with cultural associations linking this natural mineral to endurance, balance, and the structural foundation of life.
Blood-leaf (Sanguinaria 200C) carries traditional connections to transformation and vitality, with Native American herbal practices historically recognizing it as a plant tied to strength and renewal.
Duckweed (Lemna minor 30C, 200C) has been symbolically linked in folk traditions with adaptability and cleansing, reflecting its role as a resilient aquatic plant that thrives in changing conditions.
Cat-thyme (Teucrium marum verum 6C, 30C, 200C) has a long history in European herbal lore, where it was valued as an aromatic plant associated with energy, renewal, and clearing.
NOSE: inflammation of nose, ulcerated, painful, swollen with obstruction. Fetid discharge, purulent, bloody, bone disorder, smell disorder.
BONE: the destruction of bones like secondary syphilis, the decay of nasal, Palatine and mastoid bones)
Bichromate of Potash (Kali bichromicum) has been traditionally associated with balance and transformation, reflecting the mineral’s historical connections to alchemy and its symbolic link with endurance and resilience. Club Moss (Lycopodium) has a long tradition in European folk practices where it was regarded as a plant of strength and continuity, often symbolizing vitality and inner renewal.
Lung-wort (Sticta) has carried traditional associations with breath and clarity, its history in folk medicine reflecting the plant’s symbolic role in supporting openness and flow.
Pure Flint (Silicea) is deeply rooted in cultural traditions as a symbol of strength, fortification, and grounding, often tied to endurance and the ability to withstand challenges.
Arbor Vitae (Thuja occidentalis 12X, 1M), known as the “tree of life,” has been traditionally associated with protection, longevity, and vitality, revered in Indigenous and European traditions as a symbol of resilience and natural harmony.
in 20% USP alc.in purified water.
Reference: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32683037/
Reference: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9860614/
Reference: https://www.health.com/echinacea-benefits-7570763
Reference: https://thenaturopathicherbalist.com/herbs/d-f/euphrasia-officinalis-eyebright/
Reference: https://www.medicinenet.com/eyebright
Formula 6.
Leopard’s Bane (Apis Mell 12X, 1M) has been traditionally associated with easing states of swelling and fluid imbalance, with historic links to conditions of puffiness, fluid retention, and respiratory discomfort such as pleurisy.
Hydrofluorocarbon (Fluoroform 200C) has been described in traditional use as connected with persistent respiratory concerns, particularly longstanding coughs that may mirror the spasmodic nature of whooping cough.
Yarrow whole plant (Millefolium 12X, 1M) carries a strong place in folk medicine for its traditional role in blood balance, where it has been linked with easing respiratory strain and supporting recovery from inflammatory states of the lungs.
Ferric Phosphate (Ferr Phos M) has long been regarded in natural practice for its traditional connection to resilience during states of bronchial or respiratory imbalance, especially in viral conditions.
Skunk (Mephitis 30C, 1M) has a long history of traditional association with spasmodic coughs, asthmatic breathing, and difficulties with airflow.
Kombe Tree Seed (Strophanthus Hispidus 12X, 200C) has been traditionally linked with circulation, breathing ease, and general vitality, including historical references to anaemia, weak cardiac output, and fluid imbalances such as dropsy.
Common Salt (Nat Mur 12X, 200X) is widely recognised in traditional systems for its role as a natural fluid balancer, associated with supporting hydration, tissue strength, and general wellness.
Wild Indigo Root (Baptisia Conf 200C) has been connected in traditional use with easing heavy breathing or dyspnoea, particularly in descriptions where individuals sought comfort by sitting upright.
Charcoal (Carbo Veg 1M) has long been valued for its traditional role in easing states of weakness, shallow breathing, gasping, and general oxygen insufficiency.
Tin (Stannum Met 30C, 1M) has been traditionally associated with supporting lung and bronchial health, with historical references to easing respiratory fatigue and discomfort in the chest.
in 20% USP alc. in purified water.
Probiotic Support – Targeted Strain for Gut Balance
A carefully chosen probiotic yeast that helps support and restore healthy gut flora.
This strain, Saccharomyces boulardii (SB), has been widely studied for its role in maintaining a balanced gastrointestinal environment and supporting recovery in cases of imbalance, overgrowth, or bacterial disruption.
✔ Traditionally associated with candida overgrowth and gastrointestinal balance
✔ Helps maintain microbial equilibrium in the gut
✔ Supports both prevention and recurrence management
✔ Suitable for cats, dogs, and equines
Directions for use
Cats & Dogs: Add 2 scoops of powder once daily to meals.
Equines: Add 1–2 scoops in a little water and give by oral syringe daily if possible.
Recommended minimum use: 2 months to support restoration of healthy gut flora.
Need more advice or have more questions? Contact us for a FREE consultation with one of our fully qualified practitioners.
These statements are for general wellbeing and educational purposes only. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease. Always seek veterinary or professional advice for specific health concerns.
DISCLAIMER
The statements made regarding these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The efficacy of these products has not been confirmed by FDA-approved research. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. All information presented here is not meant as a substitute for or alternative to information from your health care practitioners. The Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act require this notice.