You may have heard of kennel cough in dogs, but as a cat parent, you may be wondering if your pet is also at risk for this infection.
In this article you will learn everything you need to know about Bordetella in cats and how to prevent it.
Key takeaways
- Cats can contract kennel cough, a contagious upper respiratory infection caused by Bordetella bronchiseptica that leads to coughing, sneezing, fever and runny nose.
- Most cases are mild and resolve with antibiotics and supportive care, but kittens, older cats, and immunocompromised cats are at higher risk of pneumonia.
- Prompt veterinary care helps confirm the diagnosis, start treatment, and prevent spread to other animals in the home.
What is kennel cough in cats?
Bordetella, or kennel cough, is an upper respiratory infection caused by bacteria that spreads easily between pets. The bacteria causes swelling in the cat's airways, leading to worrying symptoms such as coughing, sneezing and fever.
Kennel cough is not usually a medical emergency, but it can make cats very sick and progress to pneumonia if left untreated.
It is very contagious, so if you think your cat might be infected, it is important to see the veterinarian as soon as possible to get the proper diagnosis and treatment.
If you notice your cat having difficulty breathing, pale gums, or severe lethargy, take him to an emergency veterinarian immediately.
Symptoms of Kennel Cough in Cats
The most common symptoms of kennel cough in cats include:
Causes of Kennel Cough in Cats
Kennel cough in cats is caused by the bacteria Bordetella bronchiseptica. The bacteria is spread through direct contact, in airborne droplets from coughs or sneezes, and on contaminated surfaces like bedding and toys.
Kennel cough is very contagious and can spread between cats or between dogs and cats.
Cats that are in close proximity to other animals, such as in shelters or multi-pet homes, or in boarding and grooming facilities, are at increased risk of infection.
This infection is more common in young kittens and older cats due to their weaker immune systems. Immunocompromised cats, such as those with FeLV, are also more likely to become infected.
How Veterinarians Diagnose Kennel Cough in Cats
Diagnosing kennel cough is often done by taking a thorough history from the pet parent and performing a physical exam to listen to your cat's lungs, look for a cough, and look for a discharge from the eyes or nose.
The veterinarian will want to know when the symptoms started, if your cat has any underlying health conditions, and if it has been recently exposed to other animals.
Typically, the history and examination can lead to a diagnosis of kennel cough.
However, to confirm a diagnosis and rule out other respiratory conditions, other diagnostic tests may be performed, including:
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Blood test. A blood sample is taken to check your cat's general health, including testing for other infections like FeLV or FIV.
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PCR test. In cases that do not respond to first treatment or if a definitive diagnosis is needed, a cotton swab can be used to gently collect a sample from the cat's throat or eye and nasal discharge to send to a laboratory to find the cause of the infection.
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Imaging. Sometimes chest X-rays are done to rule out underlying lung diseases, such as pneumonia or asthma, or to determine the extent of swelling.
Treating Kennel Cough in Cats
Treatment for kennel cough in cats consists of medications and supportive care to treat symptoms, including:
Treatment is usually prescribed for about a week.
Although rare, hospitalization for oxygen therapy and supportive care, such as IV fluids, may be necessary in severe cases.
Recovery and Management of Kennel Cough in Cats
Most cats with kennel cough recover within seven to ten days. If symptoms are severe, it may take up to a month for complete resolution.
While a cat is recovering from kennel cough, you should keep it separated from other animals in the house to avoid spreading the illness. Give him a quiet, private space to rest with a comfortable cat bed or blanket.
Preventing Kennel Cough in Cats
Pet parents can take several steps to prevent kennel cough in their cats, including:
FAQs About Kennel Cough in Cats
How to treat Bordetella in cats?
In most cats, Bordetella is treated with antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, and cough tablets. In severe cases, hospitalization and supportive care with IV fluids and oxygen therapy may be necessary.
How serious is bordetella in cats?
Most cases of Bordetella in cats are mild and go away on their own, and they usually clear up in about a week with proper treatment. However, cats with severe symptoms or those that are immunocompromised are at risk of developing pneumonia if left untreated.
Can humans get bordetella from cats?
How do indoor cats get bordetella?
Indoor cats primarily contract Bordetella through direct contact with infected animals or through respiratory droplets spread by coughing or sneezing. Cats can also become infected through exposure to contaminated surfaces such as bedding, toys or bowls.
