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My cat keeps getting URIs with green discharge. What's the problem?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Maine Coon | Male | neutered | 10 months and 24 days old | 11.4 lbs

Hi, i have been to my vet about 4 times with my Ollie because he gets upper respiratory infections ( so the vet says) but he finished his second dose of anti biotic a few days ago and he just sneezed a big greenish discharge. He also has greenish eye discharge.. i don't know what to so anymore ive only had him for 3 months and he's never been not sick...

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on January 13th, 2017

I'm sorry Ollie has been so sick! In cats, respiratory infections are often caused by a virus, and antibiotics will not work for a virus. I will give you some things you can try at home to see if that helps with his symptoms, but he does need to see the vet again for the discharge from his eyes. The green discharge is an indication of an eye infection, and if he does have one, he will need an antibiotic eye ointment to treat him. I would have him seen right away for his eyes, as any eye problem should be considered an emergency. That's because leaving it untreated can lead to vision loss. At home for his respiratory infections, you can try starting him 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 he's congested, you can also try using a humidifier or bringing him 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.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 4th, 2019

    Poor Osiris! Many times problems with multiple eye infections can be viral in nature. Green discharge typically means that a bacteria is present as well. I do recommend to have him examined by the veterinarian and let them know that the previous antibiotic did not help. It’s likely he needs a different type of antibiotic. There is a supplement called lysine that can help some cats with viral infections. You can often find this supplement in the pet store. Make sure to protect the eye from any rubbing as this tends to make it worse. I hope he starts feeling better quickly and please feel free to post any additional questions.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 7th, 2017

    In cats, respiratory problems are commonly caused by a virus, which antibiotics will not treat. I can give you a few home remedies to see if that helps the kittens, but if it doesn't, they will need to see the vet again. First, you can try starting them 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 they are congested, you can also try using a humidifier or bringing them 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. I hope this helps!

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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