What Are The Causes Of Pneumonia In Cats?
If certain viruses, bacteria, or fungal organisms can invade your cat's airways, they can develop into inflammation or infection which may lead to pneumonia. When cats have pneumonia, they experience breathing difficulties, oxygen deficiencies, and a weakened immune system.
Although pneumonia can be developed in cats of any age, our South Wilton vets see this condition develop most often in senior cats, young kittens, and cats with underlying conditions. pneumonia can be contracted in cats in several different ways:
Parasites
In some cases, parasites including lungworms and flukes can invade the cat's air passages and result in pneumonia.Infectious Pneumonia
Infectious pneumonia results from a viral or bacterial infection in the lungs and airways, this is the most common form of pneumonia seen in cats.
Aspiration Pneumonia
Aspiration pneumonia is caused by the cat inhaling a foreign material, which leads to irritation of the sensitive lining of the lungs. A common cause of aspiration pneumonia in cats is the improper administration of liquid medications, or the inhalation of vomit if the cat is sick.Fungal Pneumonia (also called mycotic pneumonia)
Fungal pneumonia begins as a fungal infection which progresses into the development of pneumonia. The inhalation of spores from the soil is believed to be the source of most fungal infections in cats.How Can I Tell If My Cat Has Pneumonia?
Pneumonia in cats isn't always so straightforward to detect. Many symptoms of this condition are also associated with other illnesses and diseases. That being said, if your cat is suffering from pneumonia, it may display any of the following symptoms:
- Untidy appearance
- Coughing up mucus or blood
- Gurgling or rattling respiratory sounds
- Nasal discharge
- Lack of appetite
- Bluish mouth
- Fever
- Shallow or labored breathing
- Unusually fast breathing rate
- Persistent coughing
- Lethargy
- Weight loss
If your cat has aspiration pneumonia, it may also experience further symptoms such as an increased heart rate, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. Fungal pneumonia in cats is also capable of causing eye infections, skin lesions, or lameness.
Is Pneumonia In Cats Contagious To Other Cats?
Cats suffering from viral or bacterial pneumonia can pass the infection on to other cats, dogs, and small animals that they come in close contact with.
To help stop the spread of pneumonia, it's a good idea to keep your cat separated from your other pets. Do this by keeping them comfortable, but contained, in a separate room. Make sure your sick cat has a comfortable place to rest, a clean litter box, and plenty of food and water.
Clean your cat's food and water bowls frequently, as well as their litter box, and toys that may be contaminated. Also, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly after handling your unwell cat.
Will My Cat Recover From Pneumonia?
If diagnosed with pneumonia, your cat will begin treatment with your vet as soon as possible to help stabilize and fight its illness. Depending on how severe your cat's case is, treatments may include plenty of rest hospitalization and monitoring, oxygen therapy, intravenous fluids, antibiotics, or anti-fungal medications.
If your pet gets the treatment it needs quickly, there is a good chance that it will recover from pneumonia. That being said, aspiration pneumonia is quite difficult to treat and can cause complications down the road.
Your cat's age, physical fitness, underlying conditions, and the severity of its illness will all affect how well it can recover from pneumonia. Unfortunately, very young, old, or immunocompromised cats may not be strong enough to overcome this illness.
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.Is your cat having issues breathing properly, or showing other signs of pneumonia? Contact our South Wilton vets as soon as possible for diagnosis and treatment. Our South Wilton Veterinary Group veterinary team is here to help.
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