As a pet veterinarian and owner of a small animal practice, I evaluate and treat daily cat diseases. Unfortunately, cat parents do not bring their cat friends to the vet as often as dog owners, at least in my experience. So when I see a cat, it's typical for a disease or a trauma.
Read on to learn more about the most common types of cat diseases and how we can prevent our cats from getting sick at all.
1. Feline upper respiratory infections
An upper respiratory tract (URI) infection in cats is one of the most common cat diseases, similar to a common cold in humans. This highly contagious viral and bacterial infection is transmitted through contact with saliva or discharge from the nose and eyes of infected cats.
Once infected, a cat becomes a "chronic carrier" of the disease and can become ill when the immune system is weakened, eg. In times of high stress - new pets in the house, relocation, new family members, etc.
Common causes of upper respiratory infection in cats
Viral pathogens:
Feline herpesvirus type 1 (FHV-1) or feline rhinotracheitis (FVR)
Feline calicivirus (FVC)
Feline's retrovirus, such as Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) or Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV), may be factors in URIs
Bacterial pathogens:
Bordetella bronchiseptica (B.bronchiseptica)
Chlamydophila felis (C. felis)
Mycoplasma spp. (Bacteria), a rare contributor
Common clinical signs / symptoms
Cold and / or sneezing
Clear to purulent discharge from eyes and nose
to cough
lethargy
mouth ulcers
fever
Bad appetite
The diagnosis is generally based on your cat's history and clinical symptoms. However, your veterinarian may want to perform tests, such as: B. Blood tests and tests for feline leukemia and FIV to determine the causes.
Your vet will prescribe the right treatment for your cat based on the severity of his clinical symptoms.
Common treatments
Antibiotics for pets
Use a humidifier or steam bath for a short time to remove the blockage
Add lysine to your cat. Lysine is an amino acid with antiviral properties
Promote feeding by offering moist cat food as their pungent odors attract cats
Clean his eyes and nose from discharge
Reduce stress in the household
Once infected, upper respiratory infection in cats usually takes seven to 21 days. Prevention is the key to controlling the disease. Make sure that your cat is vaccinated against leukemia every year, especially if she goes outside and / or is exposed to other cats.
If you live in a multi-pet household, disinfect shared items such as food bowls, cat litter boxes, and linens regularly. Avoid direct contact with other infected cats.
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