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My cat's URI keeps returning. How can I help him without a vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 15 lbs

I have a middle age cat with what I believe to be an upper respiratory infection that has been treated with penicillin with some results, however a few days after the dose the symptoms return. This has been a real problem for about 6 months. Not sure what to do next and taking him to a vet is not an option. Please help, thank you.

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1 Answer

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Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

Veterinarian

Published on January 23rd, 2018

Poor Paladin! Unfortunately, it looks like he needs to be on antibiotics for a longer course, possibly 2-3 weeks. You can try benadryl twice a day and L-lysine to help boost his immune system. See link below. If you aren't seeing any improvement soon, I would try to find a way to get him to the vet. I just really worry that without antibiotics that the upper respiratory infection may become pneumonia which will be much harder and much more expensive to treat. If you are able to take him to the vet, I would just be sure to tell them that cost is a concern and that you would like an estimate for any treatment before it is done. If it is too expensive, ask if there are any other options that may not be the BEST option but could still potentially help him. The vet should be able to help come up with a treatment that best fits your needs. I hope this helps and he starts to feel better soon. https://www.petcoach.co/canigive/cat/benadryl/#! https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/product/vetri-science-laboratories-vetri-lysine-plus-bite-sized-cat-chews

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