Infectious Diseases of Cats

 

Cats are prone to catching a number of infections. Of particular interest is the number of slow viral infections that they are susceptible to.

To find out more about each disease, follow the link to the full article. These articles will help you become more familiar with the important aspects of each of these deadly diseases, including modes of transmission, prevention, testing, and basic treatment strategies.

 

Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV)

T wo of the most important infectious agents producing fatal illnesses in cats worldwide, the FeLV and FIV are slow viruses. Both viruses are in the same Retroviridae group, and are associated with more sickness and death in cats than any other infectious disease.

Upper Respiratory Disease Complex Agents

Feline Calicivirus, Feline Herpesvirus (FVR), and Chlamydophila are the most commonly isolated agents causing upper respiratory signs in cats. Eyes, nose and mouth may be affected with inflammation, swelling, ulcers, and production of discharges.

Lower Respiratory Disease Agents

Bordetella, Mycoplasma and other agents causing lower airway (trachea or windpipe, and lung) infections and inflammation in cats will be discussed.

Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP)

This disease is the result of a slow acting virus which produces inflammation in many organs, and produces very serious illness and death in cats.

Infections of the Digestive Tract

Feline Panleukopenia (Parvovirus), Salmonella, Campylobacter, Clostridium, Helicobacter and other agents cause digestive tract disorders in cats.

Infections of Bite Wounds

Abscesses are very common in cats, and are caused by a number of bacterial agents including Pasteurella and Staphyloccocus bacteria.

Deep Fungal Infection

Cats exposed to fungal agents can develop infections of the deep tissues. Some of these infectious agents are regional in distribution.

Rabies

Nicknamed the “Great Pretender”, though we see cases only rarely these days due to widespread vaccination and Public Health measures, we can’t let our guard down and people still need to know about this fatal disease.