Nose Fungus in Cats

A cat's nose may be prone to several fungal conditions that present visible signs and symptoms. Upon noticing such signs, cat owners should have their cat seen by a veterinarian to ascertain if a fungal condition is present.

  1. Identification

    • According to MedicineNet.com, a fungus is a single celled or multicellular organism that has the potential for causing infections. Fungal infections occurs in healthy cats, but often tend to occur in cats with a suppressed immune system.

    Aspergillosis

    • The fungal infection aspergillosis affects the nose and sinuses in cats. This condition causes nasal discharge, nose bleeds, presence of ulcers on nose and discomfort around the nasal area.

    Cryptococcosis

    • Cryptococcosis is a systemic fungal disease caused a fungus that thrives in bird droppings. In cats, it causes sneezing, nasal discharge, breathing difficulties, skin nodules, eye problems and even neurological symptoms.

    Ringworm

    • Ringworm is a contagious fungal infection that infects cats. It generally produces hairless round lesions, however in some cases, the fungus may show up as lesions on the cat's face, lips, chin or nose.

    Diagnosis

    • Nasal swabs help in the diagnosis.

      Upon noticing signs of fungal infections affecting the cat's nose, veterinarians perform diagnostic tests. A nasal swab and fungus culture examined under a microscope identifies a fungal infection.

    Treatment

    • Cats with fungal infections affecting the nose generally receive antifungal drug treatment. The treatment may last for months.