Kennel cough, a term most commonly associated with dogs, can surprisingly affect our feline friends as well. While not as prevalent as in canines, kennel cough in cats, or feline infectious tracheobronchitis, is a respiratory illness that can cause discomfort and, in some cases, serious complications. Understanding the symptoms is crucial for early detection and prompt treatment, ensuring your cat’s swift recovery.
Recognizing the Initial Signs: Mild Symptoms of Kennel Cough in Cats
The early stages of kennel cough in cats often present with mild, easily overlooked symptoms. These initial signs, while not always alarming, warrant close observation and vigilance. Recognizing them can prevent the infection from progressing into a more severe condition.
Coughing: The Hallmark Symptom
The most prominent and indicative symptom of kennel cough is, unsurprisingly, coughing. This cough can vary in intensity and sound, ranging from a mild, infrequent hack to a more forceful and persistent cough. It’s often described as a dry, hacking cough, sometimes followed by gagging or retching. Pay attention to the frequency and nature of the cough. Persistent coughing for more than a day or two warrants veterinary attention. It’s important to differentiate a kennel cough cough from other types of coughs, such as those caused by asthma or heart disease.
Sneezing: Another Common Indicator
Sneezing is another common symptom that accompanies kennel cough. Similar to coughing, the sneezing can range from infrequent to frequent and forceful. You might notice your cat sneezing several times in a row. The sneezing is often a response to the inflammation and irritation in the upper respiratory tract caused by the infectious agents. Observe if the sneezing is accompanied by other symptoms like coughing or nasal discharge.
Nasal Discharge: Clear or Colored?
Nasal discharge is the production of mucus from the nostrils. In the early stages of kennel cough, the nasal discharge may be clear and watery. As the infection progresses, the discharge can become thicker and colored, ranging from white or yellow to green, indicating a possible secondary bacterial infection. Any noticeable nasal discharge should be reported to your veterinarian. The consistency and color of the discharge can provide valuable clues for diagnosis and treatment.
Watery Eyes: A Sign of Irritation
Watery eyes, or excessive tearing, can also be a symptom of kennel cough in cats. The eyes may appear red and irritated, and your cat may squint or rub their face frequently. This symptom is usually caused by the inflammation affecting the mucous membranes, including those lining the eyes. While watery eyes can have other causes, it is essential to monitor them closely in conjunction with other symptoms.
Progressive Symptoms: When Kennel Cough Becomes More Severe
If left untreated, or if the infection is particularly virulent, kennel cough symptoms can progress and become more severe. These progressive symptoms indicate that the infection has deepened and requires immediate veterinary intervention.
Lethargy: A Loss of Energy
Lethargy is a significant decrease in energy and activity levels. Your cat may sleep more than usual, show less interest in playing, and generally appear subdued. Lethargy is a non-specific symptom that can indicate various underlying health problems, including kennel cough. A sudden and persistent change in your cat’s energy levels should never be ignored. It often signals that your cat is feeling unwell and struggling to fight off the infection.
Loss of Appetite: A Worrying Development
A loss of appetite, or anorexia, is another concerning symptom. Your cat may refuse to eat their usual food or show little interest in treats. A reduced appetite can weaken your cat’s immune system and hinder their ability to recover from the infection. Monitor your cat’s food intake and report any significant decrease to your veterinarian.
Fever: A Sign of Systemic Infection
A fever is an elevated body temperature, indicating that the body is fighting off an infection. While it can be challenging to take a cat’s temperature at home, signs of a fever may include panting, rapid breathing, and a warm nose. Contact your veterinarian to confirm the fever and determine the underlying cause. A fever, especially if accompanied by other symptoms, is a serious indication of systemic illness.
Difficulty Breathing: A Medical Emergency
Difficulty breathing, or dyspnea, is a severe symptom that requires immediate veterinary attention. Your cat may breathe rapidly, shallowly, or with noticeable effort. You might observe their chest heaving or see them extending their neck to breathe. Difficulty breathing is a medical emergency. Do not delay seeking veterinary care if you observe any signs of respiratory distress. This symptom can indicate a more severe complication, such as pneumonia.
Specific Causes and Associated Symptoms
Kennel cough in cats can be caused by various infectious agents, including viruses and bacteria. While the core symptoms remain similar, certain causes can be associated with specific signs.
Feline Herpesvirus (FHV-1)
Feline herpesvirus is a common cause of upper respiratory infections in cats, including kennel cough. In addition to the core symptoms, FHV-1 can cause conjunctivitis (inflammation of the conjunctiva, the membrane lining the eyelids), corneal ulcers (sores on the cornea, the clear front part of the eye), and skin lesions, particularly around the nose and eyes. These associated symptoms can help differentiate FHV-1 from other causes of kennel cough.
Feline Calicivirus (FCV)
Feline calicivirus is another prevalent viral cause of kennel cough. FCV can cause oral ulcers (sores in the mouth), which can make eating painful and contribute to a loss of appetite. Other associated symptoms include pneumonia and lameness, particularly in kittens. The presence of oral ulcers is a strong indicator of FCV infection.
Bordetella Bronchiseptica
Bordetella bronchiseptica is a bacterium that can cause kennel cough in cats. Although less common than viral causes, Bordetella infections can be more severe and persistent. In addition to the core symptoms, Bordetella can cause pneumonia and bronchitis (inflammation of the bronchi, the airways leading to the lungs). Cats with Bordetella infections may require antibiotic treatment.
Differentiating Kennel Cough from Other Conditions
Several other conditions can mimic the symptoms of kennel cough in cats. It’s essential to differentiate kennel cough from these conditions to ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Feline Asthma
Feline asthma is a chronic respiratory disease that can cause coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. Unlike kennel cough, asthma is not caused by an infection but by inflammation and constriction of the airways. Asthma is often triggered by allergens or irritants.
Heart Disease
Heart disease can cause coughing and difficulty breathing in cats. The cough associated with heart disease is often caused by fluid accumulation in the lungs (pulmonary edema). Unlike kennel cough, heart disease is not contagious.
Foreign Body
The presence of a foreign body in the respiratory tract can cause coughing and gagging. Foreign bodies can include grass blades, small toys, or food particles.
Pneumonia
Pneumonia is an inflammation of the lungs, often caused by infection. Pneumonia can cause coughing, difficulty breathing, fever, and lethargy. While pneumonia can be a complication of kennel cough, it can also occur independently.
When to Seek Veterinary Care
Prompt veterinary care is crucial for cats exhibiting symptoms of kennel cough. While mild cases may resolve on their own, delaying treatment can lead to complications and prolonged suffering.
Seek veterinary care immediately if your cat exhibits any of the following symptoms:
- Difficulty breathing
- Severe lethargy or weakness
- Loss of appetite for more than 24 hours
- High fever
- Colored nasal or ocular discharge
- Persistent coughing or sneezing
Even if the symptoms are mild, it’s always best to consult with your veterinarian to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan. Early intervention can prevent the infection from progressing and improve your cat’s chances of a full recovery.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosing kennel cough in cats typically involves a physical examination, a review of the cat’s medical history, and possibly diagnostic tests.
Diagnostic Tests
Your veterinarian may recommend the following diagnostic tests:
- Complete blood count (CBC): To assess the cat’s overall health and detect signs of infection.
- Biochemistry profile: To evaluate organ function.
- Nasal swab: To identify the specific infectious agents causing the kennel cough.
- Chest X-rays: To assess the lungs for signs of pneumonia or other complications.
Treatment Options
Treatment for kennel cough in cats depends on the severity of the infection and the underlying cause.
- Supportive care: Providing a comfortable and stress-free environment, ensuring adequate hydration and nutrition.
- Antibiotics: If a bacterial infection is suspected or confirmed.
- Antiviral medications: In some cases, for viral infections like FHV-1.
- Bronchodilators: To open up the airways and ease breathing.
- Corticosteroids: To reduce inflammation in severe cases.
- Nebulization: To deliver medication directly to the lungs.
Prevention Strategies
While it’s not always possible to prevent kennel cough, several measures can help reduce your cat’s risk of infection.
- Vaccination: Vaccination against feline herpesvirus and feline calicivirus can significantly reduce the risk of infection and severity of symptoms.
- Hygiene: Maintaining good hygiene, such as washing your hands after handling other cats, can help prevent the spread of infection.
- Isolation: Isolating infected cats from healthy cats can prevent the spread of kennel cough.
- Stress reduction: Minimizing stress in your cat’s environment can help boost their immune system and make them less susceptible to infection.
- Ventilation: Ensure good ventilation in your home to reduce the concentration of airborne pathogens.
Understanding the symptoms of kennel cough in cats, recognizing when to seek veterinary care, and implementing preventive measures can help protect your feline companion from this respiratory illness. Early detection and prompt treatment are essential for ensuring a swift and complete recovery, allowing your cat to return to their happy and healthy self.
What is kennel cough in cats, and is it the same as in dogs?
Kennel cough in cats is a misleading name because it’s not the same disease as kennel cough in dogs. In dogs, kennel cough is a highly contagious respiratory infection typically caused by Bordetella bronchiseptica or canine parainfluenza virus. In cats, the term is sometimes loosely used to describe various upper respiratory infections (URIs) that cause coughing, sneezing, and nasal discharge. These URIs in cats are most often caused by feline herpesvirus (FHV-1) or feline calicivirus (FCV).
While both canine kennel cough and feline URIs affect the respiratory system and are contagious, the specific pathogens and symptoms can differ. Cats don’t typically contract Bordetella bronchiseptica in the same way dogs do, and the term “kennel cough” in cats is essentially a colloquial term for feline URIs that involve coughing as a symptom. Therefore, the treatment and prevention strategies also differ.
What are the primary symptoms of a feline upper respiratory infection (URI) that might be called “kennel cough”?
The primary symptoms of a feline upper respiratory infection, sometimes misleadingly referred to as “kennel cough” in cats, often include sneezing, nasal congestion, and a runny nose. You might also observe watery eyes, mild fever, and a decreased appetite. Coughing, while not always present, is a key symptom in URIs when the term “kennel cough” is casually used, along with a generally lethargic demeanor.
Beyond the typical cold-like symptoms, some cats may develop more severe signs depending on the specific virus and their overall health. These symptoms can include ulcers on the tongue or mouth (especially with feline calicivirus), pneumonia, or in severe cases, even death, particularly in kittens or immunocompromised cats. Recognizing these symptoms early is crucial for prompt veterinary care.
How is a feline URI (“kennel cough”) diagnosed?
Diagnosing a feline URI typically involves a veterinarian conducting a thorough physical examination and considering the cat’s history and clinical signs. The veterinarian will listen to the cat’s lungs, check for fever, and examine the eyes, nose, and mouth for any signs of discharge or ulcers. They will also inquire about the cat’s vaccination status and exposure to other cats.
Specific diagnostic tests, such as viral PCR tests, can be performed to identify the specific virus causing the infection. However, these tests are not always necessary, especially in mild cases. In more severe cases, blood work or chest X-rays may be recommended to rule out other underlying health problems or complications like pneumonia.
How is a feline URI (“kennel cough”) treated?
Treatment for a feline URI is primarily supportive, focusing on alleviating symptoms and preventing secondary bacterial infections. This often involves providing a warm, comfortable environment, ensuring the cat stays hydrated and continues to eat. Your veterinarian may prescribe antiviral medications, though these are generally reserved for severe cases.
Antibiotics are often prescribed to treat secondary bacterial infections, which can occur when the cat’s immune system is weakened by the viral infection. Other treatments might include eye drops or nasal decongestants to relieve congestion. In severe cases, hospitalization and intravenous fluids may be necessary.
Is a feline URI (“kennel cough”) contagious to humans or other animals?
Feline URIs are generally not contagious to humans. The viruses that cause these infections, such as feline herpesvirus and feline calicivirus, are specific to cats and do not typically infect humans. While there are rare exceptions with some subtypes of influenza, the common feline respiratory viruses pose very little to no risk to human health.
However, feline URIs are highly contagious to other cats. These viruses can spread through direct contact (e.g., grooming, sharing food bowls), airborne droplets (e.g., sneezing, coughing), or contaminated surfaces. Therefore, it is crucial to isolate an infected cat from other cats in the household to prevent the spread of the infection.
How can I prevent my cat from contracting a URI (“kennel cough”)?
Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent feline URIs. Core vaccines for cats, such as the FVRCP vaccine, protect against feline herpesvirus and feline calicivirus, two of the most common causes of these infections. Regular booster shots are necessary to maintain immunity.
Maintaining a clean and hygienic environment can also help prevent the spread of infection. Regularly clean and disinfect litter boxes, food and water bowls, and other surfaces that cats frequently come into contact with. Additionally, minimizing stress and providing a healthy diet can help strengthen your cat’s immune system and reduce their susceptibility to infection.
What are the potential long-term complications of a feline URI (“kennel cough”)?
While most cats recover fully from a feline URI, some may experience long-term complications. Feline herpesvirus, in particular, can become latent, meaning the virus remains dormant in the cat’s body and can reactivate during times of stress. This can lead to recurrent episodes of URI symptoms, such as sneezing and watery eyes.
In some cases, chronic rhinitis (inflammation of the nasal passages) or sinusitis can develop, leading to persistent nasal discharge and breathing difficulties. In rare instances, corneal ulcers or scarring of the cornea can occur due to herpesvirus infection. It is essential to follow your veterinarian’s recommendations for managing these complications to ensure your cat’s long-term health and well-being.