Feline Pneumonitis

Cats get upper respiratory infections just like humans do. If you have noticed your cat sneezing or suffering from a runny nose or eyes, have it checked for feline pneumonitis, an upper respiratory infection that is not considered life threatening. Because feline pneumonitis is suspected to cause conjunctivitis in humans on rare occasions, have your cat checked for this disease as soon as possible.

  1. Causes

    • Feline pneumonitis is caused by Chlamydia psittaci, a microscopic organism that requires the cat's body to live and function. This disease can be spread through contact with nose, eye or mouth discharge. The disease is usually mild and can be transmitted from human hands and clothing and the bacteria may be harbored in areas such as litter boxes, food bowls and cages.

    Symptoms

    • The feline pneumonitis bacteria invade and irritate the lining of the respiratory system, causing sneezing, coughing, discharge from the nose, lack of appetite and fever. If the disease occurs without any other respiratory infections, the cat may not exhibit any symptoms. The most common symptoms are those associated with eye infections. Red, weepy eyes are common symptoms of cats infected with Chlamydia psittaci.

    Treatment

    • Antibiotics are often useful in treating feline pneumonitis because it is not a virus. Eye drops and intravenous therapy if the cat is dehydrated. The most commonly used antibiotic is Tetracycline, administered by mouth or as an ointment for infected eyes. If the lower respiratory tract is affected, causing the cat to develop pneumonia, rest and fluids are required. In the case of pneumonia, placing a humidifier near the cat or keeping the cat in a steam-filled bathroom may help.

    Prevention

    • Feline pneumonitis does not usually occur in a household with a single housecat. Routine vaccinations are recommended if you have multiple cats, you exhibit your cat in breed shows or your cat goes outside. Vaccines are administered at 8-10 weeks and 14-16 weeks, and annual boosters are required. Vaccines do not eliminate the risk that your cat will contract feline pneumonitis but they will decrease the severity and duration of the illness.