RESPIRATORY DISEASE COMPLEX IN CATS
General Information:
Various infectious organisms have been isolated from
the respiratory tract of cats. Most of these organisms are contagious,
and some can cause fatal disease. These organisms include:
In most cases, isolation of the offending
organism is neither necessary nor cost-effective.
Respiratory diseases are transmitted by direct contact
with infected cats or discharges from their eyes, nose, mouth
or other body fluids. Some of these organisms are spread by contaminated
clothing, hands, feeding utensils, grooming equipment and other
articles. In a few cases, the organisms are air-borne for short
distances.
The most common signs of respiratory disease are:
Some infections
last only a few days, while other may be present for weeks or
months. Some of these disease agents exist in a carrier state
in apparently healthy cats.
Treatment Information:
- While most respiratory infections can be treated
at home, severely ill cats require hospitalization and repeated
laboratory tests and radiographs (x-rays) to monitor the response
to treatment. Cats reluctant or unable to eat are also often hospitalized.
- Give all medication as directed. Call your veterinarian's
office if you cannot give the medication.
- Remove all secretions from the eyes, nose and
mouth several times each day with a moistened cloth or facial
tissue.
- Diet: Your vet may recommend a special diet until
your cat is well.
- Water: Encourage your cat to drink water. Provide
clean, fresh water at all times.
We hope that you will find this information helpful in your quest
for better pet care. If you have any questions or comments, please call your
veterinarian's office, or feel free to
e-mail us.
David E. Hammett, DVM
and the Staff of All Creatures Veterinary Clinic, PC
