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Kitten's URI symptoms returned. Does she need more antibiotics?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Female | spayed | 3 months and 7 days old | 4.5 lbs

I adopted a 3.5 month old kitten. She came down with URI and was on Clavamox for 7 days. She was 99% better with only occasional sneeze. 5 days after her last dose, she's sneezing, congested, and runny nose again. Does she need another round of Clavamox?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on September 23rd, 2017

URI in cats and kittens can be caused by viruses, which antibiotics will not treat. Without seeing Nyx in person, I can't say for sure if she needs more antibiotics or not but I do think a vet visit would be good idea. The vet can prescribe her more antibiotics if needed. I can also give you some things you can do at home. First, you can try starting her on an L-lysine supplement - this is an amino acid that has been shown to help the immune system fight off respiratory infections more effectively. Enisyl and Viralys are both good brands, and can be purchased over the counter without a prescription - just follow the dosing instructions on the label based on your cat's weight. If she's congested, you can also try using a humidifier or bringing her into the bathroom with the door closed while you take a hot shower - the steam and humidity help to break up congestion and temporarily relieve symptoms associated with respiratory infections. Good luck, I hope this helps!

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    Answered By Dr. Davis

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Yes she may need a longer course of antibiotics to fully recover. Also let her rest and give canned food if necessary so she eats well. Warming up smelly canned food will stimulate her to eat. I like to take a warm cloth to keep the discharge off her nose. Applying a thin film of Vaseline on the nose will keep the nasal discharge from crusting in the nose. Be patient sometimes it takes several weeks to fully recover from an upper respiratory infection. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Nyx.

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