Blastomycosis in Cats

Feline blastomycosis is a serious disease caused by the cat inhaling a fungus that exists in soil. The disease is associated more with dogs because cats are relatively resistant to this fungus. However, it can cause severe effects in cats as well.

  1. Risk Factors

    • Cats that are outdoors much of the time and live in areas where the fungus Blastomyces dermatitidis is present are at risk for developing blastomycosis. This is particularly true for cats who hunt.

    Primary Symptoms

    • The disease usually affects the respiratory system, with signs of coughing, difficulty breathing and fever. These cats generally are not hungry and lose weight. They also often have draining skin lesions.

    Infection Progression

    • Blastomycosis may lead to the cat having infections in the kidneys, bones or brain. The cat can become lame or have seizures.

    Blindness

    • Cats with blastomycosis can become permanently blind in one or both eyes---the occurrence may be sudden.

    Treatment

    • Treatment involves administering anti-fungal drugs for several months. The cat may need a great deal of attention for him to recover.