What is a staph infection in cats?
A staph infection in cats is a bacterial skin infection caused by the Staphylococcus bacteria.
These bacteria can spread between animals and, in some cases, from animals to humans.
Staphylococcus bacteria typically live on the skin and in the upper respiratory tract of animals. However, when a cat's normal immune defenses are compromised, bacteria that might otherwise live harmlessly on the skin can multiply and cause infection.
Staph infections can affect cats of any breed and age.
Key takeaways
- Staph infection in cats is caused by Staphylococcus bacteria that normally lives on the skin, but can cause infection when the immune system is weakened or the skin barrier is damaged.
- Common signs include skin abscesses, pus-filled lesions, itching, fever, and infections of the eyes, ears, respiratory tract, or bloodstream.
- Diagnosis involves blood tests and skin tests to identify the infection and discover any underlying conditions that are contributing to it.
- Treatment usually requires antibiotics, although some strains are resistant and may require alternative medications, as well as careful wound care and hygiene to prevent spread.
Symptoms of Staph Infection in Cats
Staph infection in cats can cause both localized skin infections and systemic illnesses.
Common signs include:
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
- Pain
- Skin abscesses
- Itching (pruritus)
- Inflammation with pus-filled lesions (pyoderma)
- Skin, ear, eye (conjunctivitis) or respiratory tract infections
In cats in particular, common indicators of a staph infection include:
- Skin abscesses
- Oral infections
- Eye infections
- Bacteremia (bacterial blood infection)
Symptoms may vary depending on where the infection is located and how seriously the immune system is affected.
Causes of Staph Infection in Cats
Staph infection in cats most often develops when the immune system is weakened or the skin barrier is compromised.
Young cats are more susceptible because their immune systems are not fully developed. Older cats are also at increased risk, as immune function naturally declines with age.
Other contributing factors include:
- Blood-borne bacterial or fungal infections (systemic pathogens)
- Chronic and debilitating illnesses that weaken the immune system
- Allergies that damage the skin barrier
- Secondary infections that allow Staphylococcus bacteria to invade
How Veterinarians Diagnose Staph Infection in Cats
Diagnosing a staph infection in cats requires identifying both the bacterial infection and any underlying cause that allowed it to develop.
Your veterinarian will usually start with a complete blood profile, which may include:
- A chemical blood profile
- A complete blood count (CBC)
- A urine analysis
Skin tests may also be done to determine if allergies or immune conditions are contributing to the infection.
It is also important to rule out abnormal cell development, such as cancer, which could weaken the immune system or harm normal skin health.
Treatment of Staph Infection in Cats
Treatment for staph infection in cats usually involves antibiotic therapy tailored to the specific bacterial strain involved.
Some strains of Staphylococcus bacteria are resistant to commonly prescribed medications. In these cases, standard antibiotics may not be effective and your veterinarian may need to prescribe an alternative treatment.
Recovery and Management of Staph Infection in Cats
Good hygiene and wound care are essential when managing a staph infection in cats.
Any potentially contaminated materials, such as bedding, bandages or cleaning products, should be properly disposed of or thoroughly disinfected.
Regular topical cleaning of wounds and affected skin areas is essential to promote healing and reduce bacterial spread.
Because Staphylococcus bacteria are opportunistic and can spread between animals and, in some cases, humans, extra precautions should be taken. Wash your hands thoroughly after handling your cat or cleaning wounds, and remember to wear gloves when applying medications or cleaning infected areas.
Preventing Staph Infection in Cats
There are no specific vaccines or guaranteed preventative measures against staph infection in cats.
However, reducing risk factors can help reduce the risk of infection. Maintaining good overall health, managing allergies promptly, treating wounds promptly, and keeping your cat's environment clean can reduce the risk of bacterial growth.
Since staph bacteria typically live on the skin, preventing infections largely depends on maintaining a healthy immune system and protecting the skin barrier from injury.
Frequently Asked Questions About Staph Infection in Cats
What does a staph infection in cats look like?
Staph infection in cats usually presents with skin abscesses, pus-filled sores, redness, scabs, itching and pain. Some cats may also develop eye infections, mouth infections, ear infections, or respiratory signs, depending on where the infection is located.
How do cats get staph infections?
Cats most often develop staph infections when their skin barrier is disrupted (sores, sores, irritated skin) or when their immune system is weakened. Young kittens, older cats, cats with chronic illnesses, and cats with allergies are more susceptible.
How can I prevent a staph infection from coming back?
There are no guaranteed preventative measures, but the risk of recurrence can be reduced by treating wounds promptly, managing allergies, keeping the environment clean, and fully following your veterinarian's treatment plan. Discard or disinfect contaminated items and maintain good hygiene during recovery.
