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Signs & Symptoms of Pneumonia in Cats

Pneumonia in cats is a severe respiratory condition that can severely impact your feline friend's health. Understanding the signs, symptoms, and treatment options is crucial for ensuring timely medical intervention. This blog post will cover identifying cat pneumonia, the recovery process, and the antibiotics used for treatment.

What causes pneumonia in cats?

If specific viruses, bacteria, or fungal organisms enter your cat's nostrils or trachea, they can cause infection and inflammation, leading to pneumonia. Cats with pneumonia experience difficulty breathing and a lack of oxygen in the blood, which can weaken their immune system.

Pneumonia can affect cats of any age, but it is more common in older cats, young kittens, or cats with underlying health issues.

Ways cats can contract pneumonia:

  • Infectious pneumonia -This is the most common kind of pneumonia in cats. A bacterial or viral infection in the airways and lungs causes it.
  • Aspiration pneumonia – Cats get this type of pneumonia by inhaling a foreign material that irritates the sensitive lining of the lungs. A common cause of aspiration pneumonia in cats is improperly administering liquid medications or inhaling vomit if the cat is sick.
  • Fungal pneumonia (also referred to as mycotic pneumonia) starts as a fungal infection that progresses into pneumonia. The inhalation of spores from the soil is believed to be the source of most fungal infections in cats.
  • Parasites - Sometimes, parasites such as flukes and lungworms can invade a cat's bronchi, causing pneumonia.

How do I know If my cat has pneumonia?

It's important to note that the symptoms and signs of pneumonia in cats can mimic those of other illnesses, such as cat colds and respiratory infections, making it difficult to diagnose. However, if your cat has pneumonia, they may show one or more of these symptoms:

  • Lack of appetite
  • Persistent coughing
  • Nasal discharge
  • Gurgling or rattling respiratory sounds
  • Shallow or labored breathing
  • Fever
  • Lethargy
  • Unusually fast breathing rate
  • Weight loss
  • Untidy appearance
  • Bluish mouth
  • Coughing up mucus or blood

Fungal pneumonia in cats can also lead to skin or eye issues, such as skin lesions, watery eyes, and lameness. Aspiration pneumonia may also cause difficulty swallowing, increased heart rate, and vomiting.

Can my cat spread pneumonia to other cats?

If your cat has contracted viral or bacterial pneumonia, they could pass it on to other cats, dogs, and small animals with whom they come in close contact.

To help keep the bacteria or virus from spreading, we recommend keeping your sick kitty in a separate room, away from the other pets in your home. Remember to give your feline friend a comfortable resting place, lots of food and water, and a clean litter box.

Clean your cat's toys, litter box, water/food bowls, and any other items that may be contaminated frequently. You also have to thoroughly wash your hands after handling your unwell kitty.

How long does it take for a cat to recover from pneumonia?

The recovery time for pneumonia in cats depends on several factors, including the severity of the illness, the cat's overall health, and how quickly treatment is initiated. Generally, with prompt and effective treatment, most cats show improvement within a few days. However, complete recovery can take several weeks.

During recovery, it is crucial to follow your veterinarian's instructions carefully. This includes administering prescribed medications, ensuring your cat rests, and providing a comfortable and stress-free environment.

What antibiotics are used to treat pneumonia in cats?

Antibiotic therapy is a cornerstone of pneumonia treatment in cats. The specific antibiotic prescribed will depend on the type of bacterial infection and its sensitivity to different medications. Commonly used antibiotics for treating pneumonia in cats include:

  • Amoxicillin-Clavulanate: This combination antibiotic is often used due to its broad-spectrum activity.
  • Doxycycline: Effective against a wide range of bacteria, including those that cause respiratory infections.
  • Clindamycin: Often prescribed for its effectiveness against certain types of bacteria that can cause pneumonia.

Your veterinarian will select the most appropriate antibiotic based on diagnostic tests and the cat's specific condition.

Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.

Contact our Maury County vets today to schedule an appointment for your kitty if they show signs of pneumonia.

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