Irritated Nose - Upper Respiratory Infection

Question
Both of our cats, 13 week old kitten and 3 year old cat, have an upper respiratory infection.  They were placed on antibiotics and are both still eating and drinking normally.  However, our adult cat has a runny nose and has licked/pawed at it. His nose is currently red and irritated.  Is there anything that I can put on it to relieve the irritation?  Or should I just let it alone?  Our vet office is closed for a few days, so I cannot take him there.  Thanks!

Answer
Hi Carla!  Unfortunately, anything topical that you put on the nose is going to be pawed or licked off.  The only thing that you can do to alleviate the problem, is to go to your local pet store and purchase an e-collar.  This collar goes around the neck, making a cone around the animal's head which deters scratching.  With the e-collar on, this will allow the area to heal without your cat pawing at his nose.  This will, however not impove his licking.  The reason he is licking his nose is to get rid of the nasal discharge.  Being that he is on antibiotics, the nasal discharge will come to a halt, eliminating his need to lick his nose.  So, basically, this should heal on it's own.  The e-collar may help with the healing, as pawing at the area is probably causing more irritation.
If the area begins to look infected, oozing, ect., having your veterinarian check it out when the office is open in a few days would be a good idea.
I hope this helps!
Hilary