Cat respiratory diseases Most cats with upper respiratory signs are infected with feline herpesvirus 1 (FHV-1) or calicivirus, with secondary bacterial infections, though some bacteria may cause primary disease. Find specific details on this topic and related topics from the MSD Vet Manual. Infectious causes for feline upper respiratory tract disease - a case-control study. Cat flu, or upper respiratory infection (URI) is a very common disease that can vary considerably in severity, and on occasion can even be life-threatening. These infections represent a significant and frequent drain on shelter resources, including treatment costs, staff time, and staff morale. Learn about common kitten diseases, their signs, and how to treat them. In cats, they are commonly referred to as feline upper respiratory tract disease (URTD), feline infectious respiratory disease, feline respiratory diseas complex, and f CIRDC and URTD. They often have drainage from their Sep 3, 2024 · Feline respiratory disease complex (FRDC) is a highly prevalent syndrome in cats that often result in fatal outcomes. Persons with specific medical conditions such as a chronic illness, immunodeficiency and pregnancy may be at higher risk of developing disease or complications from a Feline calicivirus (FCV) is a virus that is an important cause of upper respiratory infections and oral disease in cats. Although cats infected with FIV may appear normal for years, they eventually suffer from immune deficiency, which allows normally harmless bacteria, viruses, protozoa Learn about common diseases and conditions in cats. Even if recovery does take place, a recovered cat can continue to Apr 30, 2021 · Feline infectious respiratory disease (URTD) is a very common cause of illness in US shelters, threatening the health and adoptability of individual cats and the entire feline population. Read the paper Cats Acute bacterial upper respiratory infection ≤ 10 days duration Diagnostics Check for feline leukaemia virus and feline Overview Contagious respiratory infections are the most common cause of illness in cats in shelters and the most difficult to prevent or manage. The differential diagnosis includes viral, bacterial, and fungal infections; chronic rhinosinusitis; foreign bodies; tooth root disease; neoplasia; inflammatory polyps; nasopharyngeal stenosis; and trauma. Jan 14, 2025 · Here are some of the most common diseases in cats, including how they’re spread, what symptoms to watch out for, and which cats are more likely to develop it. While this may sound alarming, it is important to understand the risks and take necessary precautions to protect both ourselves and our furry friends. Although the presentation of FRDC is usually an acute illness, chronic disease sequelae are possible either from infection or an immune Dec 24, 2024 · Lung disease in cats is common, and can be serious. It can be performed whilst the cat is in a carrier, whilst they are receiving oxygen, and without any patient restraint which may contribute to stress. It is especially common in shelters and breeding colonies, and often infects young cats. May 1, 2011 · Prevention of upper respiratory tract infections The American Association of Feline Practitioners (www. The complex is also referred to simply as feline upper respiratory tract infection. Jan 21, 2025 · Common cat diseases include diabetes, upper respiratory infections, urinary tract disease, ringworm, cancer, chronic kidney disease, and pancreatitis. Definition The term feline lower airway disease is often used to refer to a somewhat heterogeneous group of conditions that affect the lower respiratory tract of cats. 1,3 Indirect contact with contaminated sources (feeding dishes, clothing, hands) also transmits these diseases. Learn about common illnesses, symptoms, and prevention to keep yourself and your cat safe. 2000. VetBilim supports you. These are most often spread when cats sneeze, cough, or groom near shared food or water bowls. Keep your Prevention of feline upper respiratory infections Parents of children will tell you how difficult it is to keep their kids free from colds; it can sometimes be the same with our feline kids. CAUSES OF UPPER RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS (URIs) IN CATS Respiratory diseases are common in cats. Calicivirus infections may be chronic, and infected cats shed the virus almost continuously. Mar 31, 2021 · Feline infectious respiratory diseases, whether viral or bacterial, are most often transmitted through direct cat-to-cat contact with infected nasal, ocular, or oral secretions. Prevention of feline upper respiratory infections Parents of children will tell you how difficult it is to keep their kids free from colds; it can sometimes be the same with our feline kids. General Disease Information Agents: Multiple bacterial and viral pathogens, acting both sequentially and synergistically, are associated with Feline Upper Respiratory Infections (URI). Feline viral rhinotracheitis (feline herpesvirus) and calicivirus were the primary causes of chronic upper respiratory tract disease before the development of vaccines in the 1970s. If left untreated, these conditions can lead to . Learn about the veterinary topic of Overview of Respiratory Diseases of Dogs and Cats. Feline upper respiratory infection (URI) is the common term for a respiratory infection caused by one or more viral or bacterial agents. It is spread primarily via the saliva of infected cats through bite wounds, so transmission among socially compatible cats is rare. Causes of Respiratory Diseases Over 85% of Upper respiratory tract (URT) diseases are remarkably common in cats and can be both challenging in the acute state and frustrating in the chronic state. Environmental and host factors impact the transmission, clinical presentation, preventive strategy, and treatment of affected c … Mar 6, 2025 · Respiratory infections in cats include upper respiratory infections and lower respiratory infections. Treatment of this disease can be difficult. Other rare but highly virulent strains of feline calicivirus cause severe systemic and fatal disease. org) recommends that all healthy kittens and adult cats without a known vaccination history should be routinely vaccinated with an intranasal or parenteral vaccine that contains FHV-1, FCV, and feline panleukopenia virus (FVRCP). Infectious respiratory disease is comparable to flus or colds in people. Common cat viruses include feline immunodeficiency virus, feline leukemia virus, feline coronavirus, feline panleukopenia virus, feline herpesvirus, and calicivirus and rabies. Respiratory Infections While some respiratory infections are species-specific, Bordetella is a bacteria that can be spread between species such as dogs and cats. Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) is one of the most common and consequential infectious diseases of cats around the world. Respiratory disease RealPCR panels Rapidly and accurately diagnose infectious causes of respiratory disease in dogs and cats. It is most commonly a problem in multicat environments such as shelters, catteries or other large colonies, boarding facilities, and cat shows where significant stress, overcrowding and suboptimal Learn about common respiratory issues in cats, their symptoms, causes, and effective solutions to keep your feline healthy and happy. Other bacteria found in cats’ mouths such as Pasteurella multocida may also cause skin infections and respiratory tract infections if transmitted to humans through bites or scratches. This complex condition, also known as feline upper respiratory infection (URI) or feline infectious respiratory disease, is primarily caused by specific viral agents, predominantly Feline Herpesvirus-1 Understand the 25 most common cat diseases, including the symptoms, causes, preventions, fatality, and treatment price. We'll help you spot the symptoms of infections and offer advice on getting your cat treatment. May 5, 2023 · Chronic rhinosinusitis Chronic postviral bacterial rhinosinusitis is a common cause of chronic nasal discharge in cats (Fig 1). Our vet-written guide will help you identify symptoms and how to treat it. The aim is to avoid the all-too-frequent temptation in practice to treat cats with lower respiratory tract signs empirically for feline bronchial URI can affect cats of all ages, but young kittens, older cats, and those with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable. Rhinotracheitis and pneumonitis are the most common and have identical symptoms. 2010;12:783–789. Read on for information about diseases and other medical inflictions that frequently impact cats. Many of these viruses can be prevented by vaccination. Neither of these infections is transmissible to humans or to other animals. The most common respiratory diseases in felines include the rhinotracheitis and the calicivirus. Natural remedies for feline respiratory disease include apple cider vinegar, colloidal silver and l-lysine. The respiratory diseases are highly contagious and may be spread through air or body secretions. Abstract. Early intervention, appropriate medication, and dedicated home care create the best possible outcomes for our feline companions dealing with lung disease. Synonyms for this condition include feline infectious respiratory disease and feline upper respiratory disease complex (URD). The primary purpose of this presentation is to update attendees on management of cats with chronic disease that is likely induced by bacterial or viral causes. There are several infectious agents, both viruses and bacteria, that play a role in respiratory infections in cats. Viruses are the most common cause of URIs in cats. Once Overview Contagious respiratory infections are the most common cause of illness in cats in shelters and the most difficult to prevent or manage. FRDC etiology is complex, and often, mu May 5, 2023 · Chronic rhinosinusitis Chronic postviral bacterial rhinosinusitis is a common cause of chronic nasal discharge in cats (Fig 1). The principal diseases are feline viral Introduction Feline upper respiratory tract infection (URI) or feline respiratory disease complex refers to contagious acute respiratory/ocular disease that can be caused by multiple organisms. A variety of viruses, bacteria, fungi, and protozoa cause these infections, which negatively impact feline health. It is usually caused by one or more infectious agents. The International Society of Companion Animal Infectious Diseases (ISCAID) guidelines suggests a ten-day monitoring period prior to considering Apr 17, 2023 · It pays to be informed about feline upper respiratory infections. Jan 5, 2020 · Guidelines for feline respiratory mycoplasma infections to improve cat health and welfare through evidence-based prevention and control measures. 0084. Learn about the causes, symptoms, and treatment of cat upper respiratory infection. This virus is another major cause of upper respiratory tract infection in cats. There are many causes of bacterial, viral, and fungal causes of upper respiratory infections (URI) in cats. At birth, the respiratory and immune systems are Feline respiratory disease complex is typically manifested by clinical signs of the eyes, nose, and mouth (rhinosinusitis, sneezing, conjunctivitis, lacrimation, salivation, and oral ulcerations, as well as fever. Clinical ch Jul 15, 2025 · Cats and kittens can suffer from feline respiratory disease, which is an infection caused by a virus or bacteria. One of the most common forms is called chronic rhinitis. , H3N2 canine influenza virus) and monitoring for emerging strains. Holding cats for treatment and recovery adds to the number of animal care days until adoption, which in turn Feline respiratory disease complex (FRDC) refers to the characteristic acute presen-tation of a contagious respiratory or ocular disease caused by one or multiple pathogens. Widespread and highly contagious, its symptoms of fever, ulcers and blisters on the tongue and pneumonia (inflammation of the lungs) can range from mild to severe, depending on the strain of virus present. Feline respiratory disease complex (FRDC) refers to the characteristic acute presentation of a contagious respiratory or ocular disease caused by one or multiple pathogens. The enlarged heart disease also causes circulation problems and affects the cat’s respiratory function. Transmission of Feline Upper Respiratory Disease Transmission of feline URD, whether viral or bacterial in origin, most often occurs following direct cat-to-cat contact with infected nasal, ocular, or oral secretions. Secondary bacterial infections are a common complication Respiratory diseases can affect both humans and animals, including our beloved pets. Find specific details on this topic and related topics from the Merck Vet Manual. Common diagnostic differentials include viral, bacterial, and fungal infections; chronic rhinosinusitis; foreign bodies; tooth root Can My Dog Get An Upper Respiratory Infection From My Cat Although it may be surprising to some pet owners, dogs and cats can get some of the same diseases. It requires a comprehensive plan that addresses each cat’s physical and mental well-being and includes a housing and stress reduction plan to provide a high level of disease protection for a cat in the shelter environment or better Abstract Practical relevance Lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs) in cats can be due to bacteria, parasites, fungi and viruses. These viruses can be transmitted from cat-to-cat through coughing, sneezing, grooming or sharing food and water. Most upper respiratory tract infections are due to viral infections, often uncomplicated by secondary bacterial infections. URT refers to a chronic (long-term) disease affecting the nose or the nasopharynx (the air passage immediately behind the nose). Holding cats for treatment and recovery adds to the number of animal care days until adoption, which in turn Find Cat Respiratory Disease stock images in HD and millions of other royalty-free stock photos, illustrations and vectors in the Shutterstock collection. Unfortunately, this includes a disease called Bordetella bronchiseptica, more commonly referred to as Kennel Cough. Feline respiratory disease complex is a set of respiratory illnesses caused by a group of organisms that can cause infection alone or together. These infections are primarily caused by viruses, including feline herpesvirus and calicivirus, though bacterial infections can occur as primary or secondary conditions. Most cats recover completely after a calicivirus infection, but rare strains can be especially deadly. These include conjunctivitis (inflammation of the eye lining), inflammation of the linings of the sinuses and nasal passages, sores in the cat’s mouth, excessive tearing, and salivation. Ninety percent of feline upper respiratory infections are caused by either feline herpes (also called the rhinotracheitis virus) or feline calicivirus. Abstract Respiratory tract disease can be associated with primary or secondary bacterial infections in dogs and cats and is a common reason for use and potential misuse, improper use, and overuse of antimicrobials. Feb 10, 2017 · Abstract Respiratory tract disease can be associated with primary or secondary bacterial infections in dogs and cats and is a common reason for use and potential misuse, improper use, and overuse of antimicrobials. Also known as cat flu or cat colds, URIs are typically caused by viruses that affect mostly young kittens and older cats with weakened immune systems. Observation of respiratory pattern is a very useful way of narrowing the list of possible differential diagnoses in cats with respiratory distress (Table 1). Sep 2, 2024 · WebMD discusses upper respiratory infection in cats and includes symptoms, treatment, and prevention. Since no consensus definition exists for these lower airway diseases in veterinary medicine, different authors use different terminology, creating some confusion in the literature. This review details the practical investigation of these infections and highlights specific therapy where possible. Multiple pathogens can contribute to URTD in kittens, and coinfections are common in overcrowded environments and contribute to increased disease severity. doi: 10. Ensure your cat stays healthy with proper care and prevention. Frequently Asked Questions Respiratory diseases are common in cats. Learn the causes, symptoms, treatments, and recovery tips to help your cat feel better fast. Apr 17, 2023 · It pays to be informed about feline upper respiratory infections. Dec 30, 2013 · Infectious feline upper respiratory tract disease (URTD) continues to be a widespread and important cause of morbidity and mortality in kittens. 5 days ago · What Can You Give a Cat for Respiratory Distress? Knowing what can you give a cat for respiratory distress is crucial; oxygen therapy administered by a vet is the most critical immediate action, while medications prescribed by a veterinarian, like bronchodilators and corticosteroids, can help manage the underlying condition. This allows secondary infections to become established Feb 7, 2023 · Key Takeaways Viral disease is common in cats but can present in many different ways. We’ll also talk with several experts who will provide information and resources to help you manage feline H5N1 cases in your practice. Mycoplasma species are considered commensal bacteria of the conjunctiva and the upper respiratory tract of cats, and hence their Feline respiratory disease complex is a set of respiratory illnesses caused by a group of organisms that can cause infection alone or together. Feline respiratory disease. Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery. Respiratory diseases are common in cats. Recognizing these diseases can help veterinarians appropriately treat feline patients and counsel clients about preventing zoonotic transmission. Thousands of new, high-quality pictures added every day. Dec 1, 2009 · Clinical signs of upper respiratory disease are common in cats. The following guidelines are based on the Antimicrobial use Guidelines for Treatment of Respiratory Tract Disease in Dogs and Cats: Antimicrobial Guidelines Working Group of the International Society for Companion Animal Infectious Diseases. Usually, both cats and dogs will get a cough and other Abstract Clinical signs of upper respiratory disease are common in cats. Nov 11, 2022 · What Is Upper Respiratory Infection in Cats? An upper respiratory infection (URI) is an infection in the nose, sinuses, mouth, and/or throat. Learn about some common conditions and how to prevent their occurrence. Apr 2, 2025 · Feline respiratory infections typically present as a complex of symptoms affecting the nose, throat, and sinuses. Both dogs and cats can get this disease and pass it to each other. May 15, 2022 · There are several infectious diseases that can affect cats. Discover the vital signs of respiratory issues in cats, from coughing to labored breathing. Comprehensive and relevant panels include both specific detection of currently active flu strains (e. Apr 17, 2023 · Learn all about the respiratory infection Bordetella in cats. FRDC etiology is complex, and often, mu Jun 24, 2025 · Respiratory distress in cats can be caused by respiratory infections, heart disease, bronchial asthma, and much more. Genetic Respiratory Illness in Cats Genetic respiratory illnesses are generally caused by an underlying heart condition. 1053/jfms. The most common respiratory infection that humans can get from cats is cat scratch disease (CSD), which is caused by the bacterium Bartonella henselae. Apr 4, 2025 · With advances in veterinary medicine and improved understanding of feline respiratory conditions, the outlook for cats with lung disease continues to improve. An initial upper respiratory viral infection, usually feline herpesvirus 1 (FHV-1), causes irreversible damage to the nasal turbinates and mucosa, limiting the future efficacy of the mucosal immune system. Feline calicivirus. Often these diseases do not make the animal appear sick but can cause serious illness in humans. Respiratory infections are common in cats, especially in high-density populations such as shelters, breeding catteries, and feral cat colonies. This allows secondary infections to become established Dec 5, 2024 · Can cats catch human diseases? Discover which illnesses can transfer between humans and cats and how to protect your pet. Although the presentation of FRDC is usually an acute illness, chronic disease sequelae are possible either from infection or an immune Oct 28, 2021 · Upper respiratory infections (URIs) are one of the most common infectious diseases seen in cats. Periodical vaccinations can prevent respiratory infections in cats. The goal is to provide small animal practitioners with a current and organized review of the often-conflicting literature regarding the role of Mycoplasma species in feline respiratory infections. The respiratory diseases affect the mouth, the air passages and the sinuses of the pet. May 1, 2020 · Fernandez M, Manzanilla EG, Lloret A, León M, Thibault JC (2017): Prevalence of feline herpesvirus-1, feline calicivirus, Chlamydophila felis and Mycoplasma felis DNA and associated risk factors in cats in Spain with upper respiratory tract disease, conjunctivitis and/or gingivostomatitis. Mortality is low, but recovery from Learn about the veterinary topic of Overview of Respiratory Diseases of Dogs and Cats. J Fel Med Surg. But, as is the case with children, vaccination can protect your cat from the most common causes of and upper respiratory infection: FVR and FVC. ious respiratory disease complex (CIRDC), infectious tracheobronchitis, or kennel cough. Oct 18, 2024 · Feline upper respiratory infections (URIs) are similar to the common cold in humans and include signs such as sinus congestion, sneezing, fever, and runny eyes. The International Society of Companion Animal Infectious Diseases (ISCAID) guidelines suggests a ten-day monitoring period prior to considering Holst BS, Hanas S, Berndtsson LT, et al. Jul 17, 2024 · Successfully preventing and managing feline upper respiratory infection (URI) in a shelter setting requires more than medical treatment of a clinically ill cat. It includes those illnesses with signs including inflammation of the nasal and sinus linings, inflammation of the eye lining (conjunctivitis), excessive tear production, salivation, and mouth sores. Transmission through aerosolized microdroplets from infected cats May 5, 2023 · Chronic rhinosinusitis Chronic postviral bacterial rhinosinusitis is a common cause of chronic nasal discharge in cats (Fig 1). g. In rare cases, persistent or severe sneezing may indicate a serious condition such as a respiratory infection, dental disease, or even a foreign object lodged in the nasal cavity. Learn feline respiratory disease treatment, cause and prevention. Common Symptoms of Upper Respiratory Infections The symptoms of URI in cats can vary depending on the severity of the infection, the causative agent, and the overall health of the cat. There are several respiratory diseases that can be Chronic upper respiratory tract (URT) disease, also known as chronic nasal discharge, is a relatively common problem in cats and can have many causes. Mar 31, 2023 · Common causes of chronic nasal discharge in cats in the UK While the list of potential differential diagnoses is relatively lengthy (Box 1), the most common causes of chronic nasal discharge in cats in the UK are chronic rhinosinusitis (often referred to as chronic rhinitis), intranasal neoplasia and foreign body (eg, a grass blade lodged in the nose or nasopharynx) (Henderson and others 2004 If your cat is coughing up more than hairballs, your furry friend may have feline respiratory disease complex! Feline respiratory disease complex (FRDC) is an umbrella term for respiratory illnesses in cats caused by a group of organisms and/or viruses, and is estimated to occur in approximately 25. This virus infects cats throughout the world, and can cause disease in both domestic and exotic species of the cat family. Both very young and older animals are at increased risk of developing respiratory disease compared to healthy adult animals. There is a lack of comprehensive treatment guidelines such as those that are available for human medicine. Aug 3, 2016 · Cats can transmit several different respiratory pathogens to humans. Sep 20, 2024 · Learn about feline upper respiratory infections, their causes, symptoms, and treatment options. Oct 13, 2024 · Cat-to-human respiratory diseases are a concern for owners. The virus is often referred to as cat HIV or cat AIDS because it has a similar effect on Jun 13, 2017 · The authors first define acute upper respiratory infections as lasting less than 10 days, and chronic greater than 10 days. While not comprehensive, this article highlights the most Feline Upper Respiratory Disease: Feline upper respiratory tract disease is a syndrome consisting of clinical signs that can include serous to mucopurulent ocular and nasal discharges, epistaxis, sneezing, and conjunctivitis. Diseases that can be transmitted from animals to people are called zoonotic diseases. Two viruses—feline Feline respiratory disease complex can show up as one of several illnesses in cats. Mar 28, 2025 · We’ll look at a case study regarding a 10-year-old spayed female domestic shorthair cat presented to a veterinary clinic in the western United States. The principal diseases are feline viral Feline infectious respiratory disease, also called Upper Respiratory Infections (URIs), are infections of the sinus and nasal passages of cats. They can be caused by viruses or bacteria, though viral infections are much more likely. Antimicrobial use Guidelines for Treatment of Respiratory Tract Disease in Dogs and Cats: Antimicrobial Guidelines Working Group of the International Society for Companion Animal Infectious Diseases (2017) Overview and Evaluation of Existing Guidelines for Rational Antimicrobial Use in Small-Animal Veterinary Practice in Europe (2021) Aug 6, 2025 · Medication and home remedies to treat the cat fluFeline upper respiratory illness (URI) affects a cat's mouth, nasal passages, upper airway, and possibly the eyes. 8% of cats in high-risk group settings [1]. Fleas Ticks Gastrointestinal Parasites of Cats Feeding Your Cat Ringworm Need for Rabies Vaccination for Indoor Cats Toxoplasmosis Although most feline infectious diseases only affect cats, some of these diseases can be transmitted from cats to people. The illnesses typicall responsible for causing these respiratory diseases are feline calicivirus and feline herpesviral As a cat parent, it is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of common illnesses so you can seek veterinary help for your feline friend in a timely manner if necessary. Part 1: common causes and reaching a diagnosis Background: Chronic nasal discharge and sneezing are common presenting signs in cats and can be caused by a number of underlying disorders, some of which can be effectively treated but others of which are among the most frustrating conditions we have to deal with. aafponline. A cat with one of these infections will normally clear all clinical signs within two to When a cat that is experiencing respiratory distress is brought to a clinic, the veterinary personnel on hand will, of course, attempt to discern which of the various lung ailments is responsible - but not before treating the animal's potentially deadly breathing difficulty. By staying informed, practicing good hygiene, and seeking veterinary care when needed, cat owners can help protect their pets from contagious diseases and prevent the spread of illness among cats. Learn about diagnosis, treatment options—including medications and lifestyle changes—and preventive measures to ensure your feline’s health. Feline upper respiratory infection (URI) Just like a human cold, URIs in cats are most commonly caused by viruses or bacteria. Accordingly, the International Society for Companion Animal Infectious Jun 25, 2014 · Practical relevance: Non-hemotropic Mycoplasma species are frequently implicated in cases of respiratory disease, and also conjunctivitis, in cats. 2000;2:123–133. Cat flu, or feline upper respiratory disease, is a contagious disease complex (can include multiple pathogens) primarily caused by feline herpesvirus type-1 (FHV-1) and feline calicivirus (FVC), with secondary bacterial infections such as Bordetella bronchiseptica and Chlamydia felis sometimes contributing to clinical signs. The virus poses no threat to humans. This study aimed to determine the most common causes of cat URTD in Latvia and describe computed tomography (CT) and laboratory diagnostic findings. Feline calicivirus is a highly contagious virus that causes a mild to severe respiratory infection and oral disease in cats. At birth, the respiratory and immune systems are Feline respiratory disease, a complex of viral contagions of cats (including rhinotracheitis, pneumonitis, and influenza), marked by fever, sneezing, and running eyes and nose. Understanding Feline Respiratory Distress Feline respiratory distress 16 hours ago · While a cat sneezing is usually harmless and often just a way to clear irritants from their nasal passages, it can sometimes be a sign of an underlying health issue. Feline Upper Respiratory Disease (FURD), often colloquially referred to as cat cold or cat flu, is a highly common and contagious illness affecting a cat’s nose, sinuses, mouth, and throat. Chronic bronchitis is characterized by airway Feline Upper Respiratory In most cases of feline upper respiratory infections, the use of antimicrobials is not indicated. Learn how to help your cat and when a veterinary visit is essential. Apr 23, 2024 · Few epidemiological studies on respiratory medicine and the relationship between clinical signs and various respiratory diseases in cats have been reported. Zoonoses Associated with Cats This document provides information on various diseases that can be passed from cats to humans. In conclusion, contagious cat diseases can pose a serious threat to the health and well-being of our feline companions. This allows secondary infections to become established Sep 3, 2024 · Feline respiratory disease complex (FRDC) is a highly prevalent syndrome in cats that often result in fatal outcomes. In infected cats, FIV attacks the immune system, leaving the cat vulnerable to many other infections. Heartworms can affect the cat’s ability to breathe. The principal diseases are Jun 25, 2014 · Non-hemotropic Mycoplasma species are frequently implicated in cases of respiratory disease, and also conjunctivitis, in cats. This retrospective study aimed to investigate the prevalence and breed predisposition to feline Apr 17, 2023 · Feline calicivirus (FCV) is a common viral infection of domestic cats. Asthma, a type I hypersensitivity reaction against aeroallergens results in pathologic features of airway eosinophilia, airway hyperresponsiveness and airway remodeling. Learn symptoms, home care tips, and treatment options. A study of feline upper respiratory tract disease with reference to prevalence and risk factors for infection with feline calicivirus and feline herpesvirus. The Nov 14, 2024 · What are upper respiratory tract diseases in cats? Upper respiratory tract diseases in cats include conditions of the nose, throat (pharynx and larynx), and windpipe (trachea). Sep 8, 2025 · Upper respiratory infections are common in cats, especially in shelters. Sep 30, 2011 · Feline respiratory disease complex (FRDC) refers to the characteristic acute presentation of a contagious respiratory or ocular disease caused by one or multiple pathogens. This article provides specific recommendations concerning the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of the most common Overview There are a number of important inflammatory airway diseases of the cat including asthma, chronic bronchitis, parasitic bronchitis, and secondary bacterial bronchitis. Feline Upper Respiratory In most cases of feline upper respiratory infections, the use of antimicrobials is not indicated. Learn about feline respiratory infections. Keywords: zoonotic respiratory infections, zoonotic infections, zoonotic pneumonia, zoonotic bacterial pneumonia, zoonotic diseases in cats, zoonotic diseases in dogs, immunocompromised patients, pasteurella multocida, bordetella bronchiseptica Introduction Dogs and cats are some of the most common household pets in the United States. Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV): This viral disease can compromise the immune system, predisposing cats to a variety of other infectious diseases. Treatment and Prevention Feline respiratory disease complex is a set of respiratory illnesses caused by a group of organisms that can cause infection alone or together. The virus causes upper respiratory disease that often closely resembles Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis (FVR), and both viruses can cause the syndrome known as “Cat Flu”, with generalised inflammation of the upper respiratory tract and eyes, leading to sneezing, bilateral ocular discharge, a high temperature, dullness and Nov 4, 2025 · Feline immunodeficiency virus, or cat FIV, is a retrovirus infection first discovered in cats in the U. Worldwide, the most prevalent pathogens are feline herpesvirus-1 and feline calicivirus Jul 25, 2025 · 1. During a URI, cats have inflammation and drainage in the mucous membranes of their nose and throat. Learn about the veterinary topic of Feline Respiratory Disease Complex. Find out more in our vet-written article about the types of cat lung disease, how to recognize them and what to do. This article explores common conditions like feline asthma and chronic bronchitis, stressing the importance of early detection and veterinary care. Jan 7, 2024 · At some time in their life, most cats are exposed to pathogens that can cause respiratory disease. S. 1. Sep 29, 2017 · How do you treat an upper respiratory infection in a cat? Upper respiratory infections in cats are some of the most common cat illnesses. These viruses mainly infect the upper respiratory tract and conjunctival epithelium, causing necrosis of epithelial cells. Although signs such as coughing and labored breathing are most commonly caused by problems of the respiratory tract, they may also occur because of disorders of other organ systems. [1] Other common respiratory pathogens include Mycoplasma felis and Oct 28, 2025 · Kittens are susceptible to several different diseases, but many are preventable or curable. What are the Symptoms of Feline Respiratory Disease? This document contains guidelines for the treatment of bacterial causes of feline upper respiratory tract disease (URTD), canine infectious respiratory disease complex (CIRDC; previously known as canine infec-tious tracheobronchitis or kennel cough complex), bronchitis, pneumonia, and pyothorax that were final-ized in 2016 by the Antimicrobial Guidelines Working Group of the International Upper respiratory tract disease (URTD) is prevalent in cats, and diagnosis can be challenging. One common concern among pet owners is the transmission of respiratory diseases from cats to humans. Holst BS, Hanas S, Berndtsson LT, et al.