Monday, February 10, 2014

Pets can get respiratory infection year-round

By Susan Collins-Smith
MSU Ag Communications
JACKSON – Winter means cold and flu season is in full swing for humans, but pets can experience similar illnesses all year long.
“Upper respiratory infection is not prevalent during a certain time of year because most cases are caused by viruses, which are present year-round,” said Dr. Christine Bryan, assistant clinical professor in the Department of Clinical Sciences at the Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine. “Patients can relapse during times of stress, other illness, injury, or in inadequate or overcrowded housing conditions, such as a shelter.”
Symptoms include sneezing, runny eyes, nasal discharge, cough, fever, nose and mouth ulcers, and hoarse voice. The symptoms usually last seven to 14 days. more...