Understanding the Symptoms of Kennel Cough in Cats
When pets are exhibiting unusual symptoms, it’s important to investigate and understand the potential cause. Kennel Cough is a common respiratory condition that affects cats. Understanding the signs, diagnosis, and treatment of kennel cough will greatly assist owners with detecting and managing this infection in their cats. This article provides a comprehensive look at the causes, symptoms and treatments for Kennel Cough in cats, so owners can properly address any concerns they may have.
Understanding the Common Symptoms of Kennel Cough in Cats
Kennel cough, which is also known as ‘bordetella’ or ‘infectious tracheobronchitis’, is an airborne viral infection that can affect cats and dogs alike. The disease is highly contagious and affects the respiratory system, leading to bouts of severe coughing and sneezing.
Symptoms of kennel cough in cats generally include a hacking and dry cough, loss of appetite, lethargy, and fever. In some more extreme cases, your cat may have difficulty breathing or have nasal discharge. You may also notice your cat retching, gagging or even vomiting due to the irritation in their throat. If you suspect that your cat has come into contact with the virus, it is advised to take them to the veterinarian immediately, as the severity and length of the illness will depend on how early it is treated.
If left untreated, kennel cough can lead to more serious complications such as pneumonia or bronchitis. That is why it is important to keep an eye on your cat’s health and be alert for any changes in behaviour or physical symptoms. Taking precautions like ensuring your pet is up to date on vaccinations and avoiding contact with other unvaccinated animals is key to preventing kennel cough.
Diagnosing and Treating Kennel Cough in Cats
Kennel cough, also known as infectious tracheobronchitis, is a highly contagious respiratory infection that affects cats living in areas where there is a high concentration of other cats, such as shelters and kennels. As the name suggests, many cats acquire this infection when living in close proximity to each other. While it can be less common in pet cats, it can still occur, so it’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms.
Symptoms of kennel cough include coughing, gagging, sneezing, nasal discharge, loss of appetite, fatigue, and in severe cases, labored breathing. Diagnosis of kennel cough usually requires a physical examination and X-rays to determine if any underlying chronic illnesses might be contributing to the infection.
Treatment for kennel cough in cats often includes antibiotics and rest, as well as supportive treatments such as fluids and/or oxygen therapy. In some cases, anti-inflammatory medication is given to reduce the severity of the symptoms. Your vet may also recommend additional supplements, such as probiotics or vitamin C, to improve and maintain the health of your cat’s immune system. If your cat has risk factors for developing kennel cough, discuss preventative measures like vaccines with your vet.
Preventing Kennel Cough in Cats
Preventing kennel cough in cats is important to ensure their health and safety. Also known as Tracheobronchitis, kennel cough is an infectious airborne disease, caused by a combination of viruses and bacteria. If left untreated, the condition can be fatal, so it’s essential that cat owners take steps to safeguard their pet from the potential risks.
One way to help prevent your cat from developing kennel cough is to make sure they are up-to-date on their vaccinations. Core vaccines, such as those for distemper and feline herpes virus, can help protect against some of the most common causes of kennel cough. It is also recommended that cats living in multiple-cat households receive additional vaccines, especially if they are regularly around other cats.
Another important factor when it comes to preventing kennel cough is good hygiene. Cats should be kept clean and groomed regularly to reduce their chance of contracting the disease. It is also advised to keep visitors to a minimum and have them wash their hands with soap and water every time they enter a home with cats.
Cat owners should also be aware of the signs of kennel cough, which typically include a dry hacking cough, sneezing, nasal discharge, and fever. If any of these symptoms are observed, it is important to seek veterinarian care immediately. With proper prevention and treatment, cats can make a full recovery from kennel cough.
Potential Complications of Kennel Cough in Cats
Kennel Cough is a highly contagious respiratory infection most often seen in dogs, but cats can also contract it. It can be caused by a number of bacteria and viruses including Bordetella bronchiseptica and the parainfluenza virus, both of which are common in animal shelters. If not treated, kennel cough in cats can cause more serious complications such as pneumonia, bronchitis, chronic coughing, and even death. Kennel cough typically presents as hacking or dry coughing, sneezing, and difficulty breathing. A veterinarian should be consulted if any of these symptoms appear in cats as antibiotics may help to reduce the duration of the infection. In severe cases, oxygen therapy and hospitalization may be required. Vaccines are available for both cats and dogs; however, they don’t protect against all the strains that cause kennel cough.
Cats can suffer from kennel cough, although the symptoms may be more mild than those seen in dogs. Pet owners should familiarize themselves with the signs and symptoms of this condition so that if their cats ever contract it, appropriate care can be provided in a timely fashion. Clinical signs typically include honking sounds during breathing, sneezing and a dry, hacking cough. Veterinarians may recommend chest x-rays or blood work to rule out other serious conditions and diagnose the illness. As with most infectious respiratory diseases, avoiding contact with potentially infected pets is advised to prevent contracting or spreading kennel cough in cats.