Kennel cough, also known as infectious tracheobronchitis, is a highly contagious respiratory disease that affects cats, dogs, and other animals. While it’s more common in dogs, cats can also contract the illness, especially in multi-pet households or when exposed to infected animals in shelters, boarding facilities, or veterinary clinics. If you’re a cat owner, it’s essential to know how long kennel cough lasts in cats, its symptoms, treatment options, and preventive measures to ensure your feline friend’s health and well-being.
What is Kennel Cough in Cats?
Kennel cough in cats is caused by a combination of viral and bacterial infections, including bordetella, parainfluenza, and adenovirus. These pathogens attack the respiratory system, leading to inflammation and irritation of the trachea, bronchi, and lungs. The disease is highly contagious and can spread through direct contact with an infected animal’s respiratory secretions, such as saliva, mucus, or sneezing droplets.
Symptoms of Kennel Cough in Cats
The symptoms of kennel cough in cats can vary in severity and duration, but common signs include:
A persistent, dry, and hacking cough, which can be accompanied by gagging or retching
Sneezing and runny eyes
Loss of appetite and lethargy
Mild fever, usually below 104°F (40°C)
Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
In severe cases, cats may experience pneumonia, which can lead to more severe symptoms, such as high fever, coughing up blood, and respiratory distress.
How Long Does Kennel Cough Last in Cats?
The duration of kennel cough in cats depends on several factors, including the severity of the infection, the cat’s overall health, and the effectiveness of treatment. In general, mild cases of kennel cough can last anywhere from 7 to 14 days, while more severe cases can persist for 3 to 6 weeks or even longer. It’s essential to note that cats can remain contagious for several weeks after recovering from the illness, so it’s crucial to keep them isolated from other animals during this period.
Treatment and Management of Kennel Cough in Cats
While there is no specific cure for kennel cough, treatment and management strategies can help alleviate symptoms, reduce the risk of complications, and support the cat’s recovery. The primary goals of treatment are to:
Relieve Symptoms
Veterinarians may prescribe antibiotics to control secondary bacterial infections, cough suppressants to reduce the severity of the cough, and anti-inflammatory medications to minimize tracheal and bronchial inflammation. In addition, providing a warm, humid environment can help soothe the cat’s respiratory system and make breathing easier.
Support the Cat’s Immune System
Ensuring the cat receives adequate nutrition, hydration, and rest is vital to support their immune system and promote recovery. In some cases, veterinarians may recommend supplements, such as vitamin C or omega-3 fatty acids, to boost the cat’s immune response.
Prevention and Control Measures
Preventing kennel cough in cats requires a multi-faceted approach that includes:
Vaccination
While there is no specific vaccine for kennel cough in cats, vaccinating your cat against upper respiratory diseases, such as rhinotracheitis and calicivirus, can help reduce the risk of infection.
Good Hygiene Practices
Practicing good hygiene, such as washing your hands frequently, disinfecting food and water bowls, and cleaning litter boxes regularly, can help minimize the risk of transmission.
Avoiding Exposure
Avoiding exposure to infected animals, especially in high-risk areas like shelters, boarding facilities, or veterinary clinics, can help prevent the spread of kennel cough.
Table: Kennel Cough Prevention and Control Measures
| Measure | Description |
|---|---|
| Vaccination | Vaccinate your cat against upper respiratory diseases |
| Good Hygiene Practices | Wash hands frequently, disinfect food and water bowls, and clean litter boxes regularly |
| Avoiding Exposure | Avoid exposure to infected animals, especially in high-risk areas |
Conclusion
Kennel cough in cats is a highly contagious respiratory disease that can cause significant discomfort and distress for your feline friend. Understanding the symptoms, treatment options, and preventive measures can help you provide the best possible care for your cat. By being aware of the duration of kennel cough in cats, which can last anywhere from 7 to 14 days in mild cases and up to 3 to 6 weeks in more severe cases, you can take proactive steps to support their recovery and minimize the risk of complications. Remember to consult with your veterinarian if you suspect your cat has kennel cough, and follow their advice on treatment and management to ensure your cat’s health and well-being.
What is Kennel Cough in Cats?
Kennel cough, also known as tracheobronchitis, is a highly contagious respiratory disease that affects cats. It is caused by a variety of factors, including viruses such as the feline calicivirus and the feline herpesvirus, as well as bacteria like Bordetella bronchiseptica. Kennel cough is often seen in cats that are exposed to other infected cats, such as in shelters, boarding facilities, or multi-cat households. The disease can range from mild to severe and can be complicated by secondary bacterial infections.
The symptoms of kennel cough in cats can vary depending on the severity of the disease, but they often include a persistent cough, sneezing, and discharge from the eyes and nose. In severe cases, cats may develop pneumonia, which can be life-threatening. It is essential to seek veterinary care if you suspect that your cat has kennel cough, as prompt treatment can help alleviate symptoms and prevent complications. Your veterinarian can diagnose kennel cough based on your cat’s symptoms, medical history, and the results of diagnostic tests such as chest radiographs and blood work.
What are the Symptoms of Kennel Cough in Cats?
The symptoms of kennel cough in cats can vary depending on the severity of the disease, but they often include a persistent cough, sneezing, and discharge from the eyes and nose. The cough is typically dry and hacking, and it may be accompanied by a wheezing or choking sound. In some cases, cats may cough up mucus or blood, which can be a sign of a more severe infection. Other symptoms of kennel cough in cats may include lethargy, loss of appetite, and fever.
In severe cases of kennel cough, cats may develop pneumonia, which can be life-threatening. Pneumonia is characterized by inflammation of the lungs, which can cause symptoms such as difficulty breathing, rapid breathing, and blue-tinged gums. If you suspect that your cat has kennel cough, it is essential to seek veterinary care promptly. Your veterinarian can diagnose kennel cough based on your cat’s symptoms, medical history, and the results of diagnostic tests such as chest radiographs and blood work. With prompt treatment, most cats can recover from kennel cough, but it is crucial to monitor their condition closely and seek veterinary care if their symptoms worsen.
How is Kennel Cough Diagnosed in Cats?
Diagnosing kennel cough in cats can be challenging, as the symptoms are similar to those of other respiratory diseases. Your veterinarian will typically start by taking a complete medical history of your cat, including information about their vaccination status, exposure to other cats, and any previous respiratory problems. A physical examination will also be performed to check for signs of illness, such as a fever, discharge from the eyes and nose, and abnormal lung sounds.
Your veterinarian may also perform diagnostic tests, such as chest radiographs, blood work, and swab tests, to confirm the diagnosis of kennel cough. Chest radiographs can help identify any abnormalities in the lungs, such as inflammation or pneumonia. Blood work can help rule out other diseases, such as feline immunodeficiency virus or feline leukemia virus, and swab tests can help identify the presence of infectious agents, such as Bordetella bronchiseptica. In some cases, your veterinarian may also perform a tracheal wash or a bronchoscopy to collect samples from the airways for further testing.
How is Kennel Cough Treated in Cats?
The treatment of kennel cough in cats depends on the severity of the disease and the presence of any underlying health conditions. Mild cases of kennel cough may not require any treatment, as the disease can resolve on its own within a few weeks. However, your veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics to help prevent secondary bacterial infections and reduce the risk of complications. In more severe cases of kennel cough, hospitalization may be necessary to provide supportive care, such as oxygen therapy, intravenous fluids, and medication to manage symptoms.
In addition to antibiotics, your veterinarian may also prescribe cough suppressants or anti-inflammatory medications to help manage your cat’s symptoms. It is essential to follow your veterinarian’s instructions carefully and complete the full course of treatment, even if your cat appears to be recovering. This can help prevent the development of antibiotic resistance and reduce the risk of relapse. It is also crucial to keep your cat isolated from other cats to prevent the spread of the disease, and to practice good hygiene, such as washing your hands frequently and disinfecting food and water bowls.
Can Kennel Cough be Prevented in Cats?
Yes, kennel cough can be prevented in cats by taking several precautions. One of the most effective ways to prevent kennel cough is to keep your cat up-to-date on their vaccinations, including the Bordetella vaccine. This vaccine can help protect your cat against the Bordetella bronchiseptica bacteria, which is a common cause of kennel cough. You should also avoid exposing your cat to other cats that may be infected with kennel cough, such as in shelters or boarding facilities.
In addition to vaccination, you can also take steps to reduce the risk of kennel cough in your cat by providing a clean and stress-free environment. This includes keeping your cat’s living area clean and well-ventilated, providing plenty of fresh water and nutritious food, and reducing stress through play and affection. You should also avoid overcrowding, as this can increase the risk of disease transmission. By taking these precautions, you can help reduce the risk of kennel cough in your cat and keep them healthy and happy.
How Long Does Kennel Cough Last in Cats?
The duration of kennel cough in cats can vary depending on the severity of the disease and the presence of any underlying health conditions. Mild cases of kennel cough can resolve on their own within a few weeks, while more severe cases can last for several months. In general, the symptoms of kennel cough can last for around 7-14 days, but it may take several weeks for your cat to make a full recovery.
It is essential to monitor your cat’s condition closely and seek veterinary care if their symptoms worsen or persist. Your veterinarian can provide guidance on how to manage your cat’s symptoms and prevent complications, and they can also provide advice on how to prevent the spread of the disease to other cats. In some cases, your veterinarian may recommend follow-up appointments to check on your cat’s progress and adjust their treatment plan as needed. With proper care and attention, most cats can make a full recovery from kennel cough and go on to lead healthy and happy lives.
Can Humans Get Kennel Cough from Cats?
No, humans cannot get kennel cough from cats. Kennel cough is a highly contagious disease that can be spread between cats, but it is not zoonotic, meaning it cannot be transmitted to humans. However, the bacteria that cause kennel cough, such as Bordetella bronchiseptica, can be transmitted to humans in rare cases, particularly in people with weakened immune systems.
While humans cannot get kennel cough from cats, it is still essential to practice good hygiene when caring for a cat with kennel cough. This includes washing your hands frequently, avoiding close contact with your cat, and disinfecting food and water bowls and other areas where your cat has been. You should also avoid touching your face or mouth after handling your cat or their belongings, as this can help reduce the risk of transmission. By taking these precautions, you can help prevent the spread of disease and keep both yourself and your cat healthy.