PET HEALTH
Does my Pet Have a Cold?
Does your pet seem to be a little down? More tired than usual, have a runny nose, cough or appear to be sneezing more than normal? These all could be a signs that your pet has a cold.
Usually a cold is nothing to worry about for your pet. However, if their symptoms seem to be significantly impacting their daily routine or continue to get worse, we always suggest getting your furry friend check by your veterinarian. This is especially important if if they are a puppy, kitten or an elderly pet.
Common Symptoms of a Cold:
- Nasal congestion and discharge
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
- Cough
- Sneezing
- Other symptoms not mentioned can also indicated a cold
While these symptoms can be nothing more than a common cold, they can also sometimes indicate more serious conditions in your pet such as:
- Canine or feline influenza
- Kennel Cough
- Feline Calicivirus
- Distemper
- Breed-specific respiratory issues
- Other more serious conditions your veterinarian could diagnose
Pets can contract colds in many ways, just like humans. They can become ill by being around other sick pets and by sharing toys, bowls, etc. Dogs are especially susceptible to colds because they tend to lick and chew on items that may have been infected by other animals that are sick.
There is no way to completely safeguard your pets against getting a cold. The first step, however, is prevention.
Tips to Keep your Pet Healthy
- Avoid contact with other sick animals
- Keep vaccinations up to date
- Keep them warm and dry, especially if symptoms have already appeared
- Regularly clean food and water bowls
As always we recommend contacting your veterinarian if you are concerned the symptoms may mean something more serious or if would like advice on how to get your pet healthy.
Consider Investing in Pet Insurance
Looking for more ways to keep your pets happy and healthy? Consider investing in a pet insurance policy with MetLife Pet Insurance.1 Learn more about our dog insurance and cat insurance policies or get your free quote today.
Protect your Pets
Nothing in this article should be construed as financial, legal or veterinary advice. Please consult your own advisors for questions relating to your and your pet’s specific circumstances.
1 Pet Insurance offered by MetLife Pet Insurance Solutions LLC is underwritten by Independence American Insurance Company (“IAIC”), a Delaware insurance company, headquartered at 485 Madison Avenue, NY, NY 10022, and Metropolitan General Insurance Company (“MetGen”), a Rhode Island insurance company, headquartered at 700 Quaker Lane, Warwick, RI 02886, in those states where MetGen’s policies are available. MetLife Pet Insurance Solutions LLC is the policy administrator authorized by IAIC and MetGen to offer and administer pet insurance policies. MetLife Pet Insurance Solutions LLC was previously known as PetFirst Healthcare, LLC and in some states continues to operate under that name pending approval of its application for a name change. The entity may operate under an alternate, assumed, and/or fictitious name in certain jurisdictions as approved, including MetLife Pet Insurance Services LLC (New York and Minnesota), MetLife Pet Insurance Solutions Agency LLC (Illinois), and such other alternate, assumed, or fictitious names approved by certain jurisdictions.
2 Provided all terms of the policy are met. Application is subject to underwriting review and approval. Like most insurance policies, insurance policies issued by IAIC and MetGen contain certain deductibles, co-insurance, exclusions, exceptions, reductions, limitations, and terms for keeping them in force. For costs, complete details of coverage and exclusions, and a listing of approved states, please contact MetLife Pet Insurance Solutions LLC.