Q: My kitten, Smitty, has been diagnosed with an upper respiratory infection. I know that it is caused by a virus, but I'm wondering if there is anything I can do to speed up the recovery process? A: Frequently, upper respiratory tract infections in cats are caused by a mixed infection involving viruses and bacteria. Regretfully, there are few antiviral medications that are effective for use in cats. Antibiotics, however can be helpful in eliminating the bacterial component of an upper respiratory infection. Other supportive treatments may include fluid therapy, vitamins, eye drops, special foods and the use of a warm steam vaporizer.

Q: I am the proud owner of a 4-year old retired Greyhound. He has been with us for several months and his nose has dripped continually with the same appearance and consistency of water ever since. I asked the rescue people and they said he was healthy and the drippy nose was nothing. Should I be worried? A: Some dogs, particularly Greyhounds, have cool, wet, even dripping noses, and are completely healthy. Other Greyhounds, however, carry a parasite called the the Basel worm which can be responsible for the nasal drainage. Parasite eggs of the worm can be found on fecal examination or by microscopic examination of material obtained from nasal swabs. Because the parasite eggs used to identity the nasal worm may resemble the eggs of another parasite, your pet's veterinarian my consult with a veterinary parasitologist to determine the best treatment.

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