My cat has a stuffy nose from URI. What helps her eat better?

Question

My cat is recovering from a nasty upper respiratory infection. She hasn't had much of an appetite due to her medication, but she seems to be getting it back. However, her nose is very stuffy and it's keeping her from eating. Whenever I give her something she looks like she tries to smell it, but can't and doesn't recognize it as edible. I've tried heating her food up and mixing it with water to no avail, and I've been syringe feeding her in the meantime. Is there any way I can help her eat? Pet's info: Cat | Siamese | Female | unspayed | 7 lbs

Stacey Anstaett, DVM · Accepted Answer

Its ok to syringe feed her as long as she isn't fighting you on it. If she's very resistant to this, do not continue to do it, as it could put her at risk for aspiration pneumonia (if she sucks food down into her trachea instead of swallowing it down her esophagus). You can use some saline nasal drops (available at any pharmacy) as this may help clear and break up some of the nasal congestion, just be certain that it is completely drug free and xylitol free--SALINE ONLY! You can also use a cool mist humidifier to help ease her congestion. As for the food, you are doing everything right. Keep warming up a little fresh food each time, you can try tuna juice on it as well, or roast (unseasoned) chicken. Chicken baby food is also sometimes a good choice for cats. Good luck with her! Thanks for asking Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

My cat has a stuffy nose from URI. What helps her eat better?

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