As a responsible cat owner, it’s essential to be aware of the potential health risks that your feline friend may face. One common condition that can affect cats is kennel cough, a contagious respiratory disease that can spread quickly. Understanding how cats get kennel cough is crucial in taking preventative measures and providing proper care to your cat if they contract the disease.
What is Kennel Cough in Cats?
Kennel cough, also known as feline infectious tracheobronchitis, is a highly contagious respiratory disease that affects the upper airways of cats. It’s caused by a combination of viruses and bacteria, including the feline calicivirus, feline herpesvirus, and Bordetella bronchiseptica. The disease is characterized by a persistent cough, sneezing, and nasal discharge, which can lead to more severe complications if left untreated.
How Do Cats Get Kennel Cough?
In this article, we’ll delve into the ways in which cats can contract kennel cough, the risk factors, and the symptoms to look out for. By understanding the causes and transmission of kennel cough, you can take steps to protect your cat from this common and potentially serious disease.
How Do Cats Get Kennel Cough?
Kennel cough, also known as feline calicivirus or feline infectious tracheobronchitis, is a highly contagious respiratory disease that affects cats of all ages. It is a common illness that can spread quickly among cats in close proximity, such as in shelters, boarding facilities, and multi-cat households. In this article, we will explore how cats get kennel cough, its symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
What Causes Kennel Cough in Cats?
Kennel cough is caused by a variety of viruses and bacteria, including:
- Feline calicivirus (FCV): This is the most common cause of kennel cough, accounting for approximately 40% of cases.
- Feline herpesvirus (FHV): This virus is responsible for around 20% of kennel cough cases.
- Bordetella bronchiseptica: This bacterium is often involved in kennel cough outbreaks, particularly in combination with viral infections.
- Chlamydophila felis: This bacterium can also contribute to kennel cough.
These pathogens are highly contagious and can spread through: (See Also: What Antibiotic Ointment Is Safe For Cats)
- Airborne transmission: When an infected cat coughs or sneezes, it releases viral or bacterial particles into the air, which can be inhaled by other cats.
- Direct contact: Touching, licking, or sharing food and water bowls with an infected cat can transmit the disease.
- Fomites: Contaminated surfaces, toys, and equipment can also spread the disease.
Symptoms of Kennel Cough in Cats
The symptoms of kennel cough can vary in severity and may include:
- Coughing: A persistent, dry, and hacking cough is the most common symptom of kennel cough.
- Sneezing: Some cats may exhibit sneezing, which can be accompanied by a nasal discharge.
- Rapid breathing: Cats with kennel cough may breathe rapidly or exhibit difficulty breathing.
- Lethargy: Infected cats may become lethargic or depressed.
- : Some cats may lose their appetite or show a decrease in interest in food.
- Fever: A mild fever may be present in some cases.
- Conjunctivitis: In some cases, kennel cough can lead to conjunctivitis, an inflammation of the eyes.
In severe cases, kennel cough can lead to complications such as:
- Pneumonia: Bacterial infections can lead to pneumonia, a potentially life-threatening condition.
- Secondary infections: Weakened immune systems can make cats more susceptible to secondary infections.
Diagnosis of Kennel Cough in Cats
Diagnosing kennel cough can be challenging, as the symptoms are similar to those of other respiratory diseases. A veterinarian will typically perform the following:
- Physical examination: A thorough physical examination to assess the cat’s overall health and identify any signs of respiratory distress.
- Medical history: A review of the cat’s medical history to determine if it has been exposed to other cats or if it has a history of respiratory problems.
- Diagnostic tests: The veterinarian may perform diagnostic tests such as:
| Test | Description |
|---|---|
| Complete Blood Count (CBC) | Measures the number of white blood cells, which can indicate infection. |
| Biochemistry profile | Assesses liver and kidney function, which can be affected by secondary infections. |
| Chest X-rays | Helps identify any lung damage or pneumonia. |
| Viral or bacterial cultures | Identifies the specific pathogen causing the infection. |
Treatment of Kennel Cough in Cats
Treatment for kennel cough typically focuses on managing symptoms and supporting the cat’s immune system. This may include:
- Antibiotics: If a secondary bacterial infection is present, antibiotics may be prescribed to combat the infection.
- Antiviral medication: In some cases, antiviral medication may be prescribed to help manage the viral infection.
- Supportive care: Providing a warm, comfortable environment, and encouraging the cat to eat and drink.
- Cough suppressants: Medication to help reduce coughing and make the cat more comfortable.
- Nutritional support: Ensuring the cat receives adequate nutrition to support its immune system.
Prevention of Kennel Cough in Cats
Preventing kennel cough requires a combination of good hygiene practices, vaccination, and minimizing exposure to infected cats. Here are some tips:
- Vaccination: Vaccinating your cat against FCV and FHV can help reduce the risk of kennel cough.
- Good hygiene: Washing your hands thoroughly before handling your cat, and regularly cleaning food and water bowls, litter boxes, and surfaces.
- Minimize exposure: Avoid exposing your cat to other cats that may be infected, especially in high-risk areas such as shelters or boarding facilities.
- Quarantine: If you suspect your cat has been exposed to kennel cough, quarantine it for at least 2 weeks to prevent the spread of the disease.
- Keep your cat indoors: Indoor cats are less likely to be exposed to infected cats or contaminated surfaces.
Recap and Key Points
In summary, kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory disease that can affect cats of all ages. It is caused by a variety of viruses and bacteria, and can spread through airborne transmission, direct contact, and contaminated surfaces. Symptoms include coughing, sneezing, rapid breathing, lethargy, and loss of appetite. Diagnosis involves a physical examination, medical history, and diagnostic tests. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and supporting the cat’s immune system, while prevention involves vaccination, good hygiene practices, minimizing exposure, and quarantining infected cats. (See Also: Why Do Cats Have A Henry’S Pocket)
Key points to remember:
- Kennel cough is a highly contagious disease that can spread quickly among cats.
- Vaccination can help reduce the risk of kennel cough.
- Good hygiene practices, such as washing your hands and regularly cleaning surfaces, can help prevent the spread of the disease.
- Minimizing exposure to infected cats and contaminated surfaces can reduce the risk of infection.
- Quarantining infected cats can help prevent the spread of the disease.
By following these guidelines and staying informed about kennel cough, you can help protect your cat from this common and contagious disease.
Frequently Asked Questions: How Do Cats Get Kennel Cough
What is kennel cough in cats?
Kennel cough, also known as feline calicivirus, is a highly contagious respiratory disease that affects cats. It is characterized by symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, runny eyes, and a runny nose. Kennel cough is usually mild and self-limiting, but it can be severe in young, old, or immunocompromised cats.
How do cats get kennel cough?
Cats can get kennel cough through direct contact with an infected cat’s saliva, mucus, or respiratory secretions. This can happen when they share food and water bowls, toys, or bedding, or when they come into close contact with each other. Kennel cough can also be spread through the air when an infected cat coughs or sneezes.
Can kennel cough be prevented?
Yes, kennel cough can be prevented by taking certain precautions. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent kennel cough. Keeping your cat indoors, avoiding contact with infected cats, and practicing good hygiene can also help prevent the spread of the disease. Additionally, regularly cleaning and disinfecting food and water bowls, toys, and bedding can help reduce the risk of transmission. (See Also: Why Do I Keep Seeing Dead Cats)
How is kennel cough diagnosed?
Kennel cough is typically diagnosed based on the symptoms and a physical examination by a veterinarian. The veterinarian may also perform diagnostic tests such as a complete blood count, blood chemistry profile, and chest X-rays to rule out other respiratory diseases. In some cases, a viral culture or PCR (polymerase chain reaction) test may be performed to confirm the diagnosis.
How is kennel cough treated?
Kennel cough is usually treated with supportive care to manage the symptoms. This may include antibiotics to prevent secondary bacterial infections, antiviral medications, and anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce inflammation and discomfort. In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary to provide oxygen therapy, fluids, and other supportive care. In most cases, cats recover from kennel cough on their own with rest, hydration, and good nutrition.
