Cat Owner’s Guide To Rhinotracheitis In Felines

A virus that causes an upper respiratory infection is responsible for rhinotracheitis in cats. This virus is highly contagious, but usually only causes mild symptoms in mature cats. However, this disease can be fatal to kittens if they develop feline pneumonia. Here is everything you need to know about cat rhinotracheitis.

Transmission

The virus is highly contagious, as you already know by now. Contaminated food dishes, cages, and litter boxes can all transmit the virus. Also, cats can become infected if they come into contact with discharge from an infected cat’s eyes, nose, or mouth. As the owner, you also have to be careful as you can harbor the virus on your hands or clothing.

Symptoms

Cats affected with feline rhinotracheitis show common symptoms of an upper respiratory infection. This includes coughing, discharge from the nose, and cat sneezing. Some cats also develop a secondary bacterial infection that can lead to pneumonia. Loss of appetite, fever, and corneal ulcers are also common signs of rhinotracheitis.

Treatment

Since secondary bacterial infections can become a problem, antibiotics are commonly prescribed when treating this condition. No other medications may be necessary since the condition usually resolves by itself within two weeks. However, nasal discharge can be limited by giving your cat nasal drops.

You will need to make sure your cat is consuming enough food and fluids. If not, he may need to have a feeding tube. To help minimize stress, you will need to prevent your cat from going outside. His recovery room should have plenty of ventilation and be warm. A humidifier would be a nice addition.

Prognosis

If affected by feline rhinotracheitis, your cat should fully recover within ten days. Recovery may take longer is a secondary bacterial infection occurs. Some cats that have had this condition experience chronic sneezing and nasal discharge.

All owners should know their pet can fall victim to various health problems in their lifetime. You can read up on many different potential health problems at cat-illnesses.com. So, come by right now to become informed.

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Cat Owner’s Guide To Feline Immunodeficiency Virus

As its name suggests, the feline immunodeficiency virus attacks your cat’s immune system. The immune system will eventually become disabled leaving your cat unprotected against various infections. Most cats that carry this virus are of the roaming variety. It can also affect larger felines such as tigers, lions and leopards.

Transmission

The feline immunodeficiency virus is shed in saliva. Infected cats can easily transmit the virus by biting other cats. The virus is rarely transmitted through the mother’s milk. However, mothers can pass the virus if she is affected during gestation or lactation.

Symptoms

Some of the most common signs of this viral infection include swollen lymph nodes, weight loss, and lethargy. Many cats also suffer from chronic oral infections. This virus can also cause your cat to display symptoms of an upper respiratory infection. This include discharge from the nose and feline sneezing.

Diagnosis

The feline immunodeficiency virus can be detected by testing for antibodies against the disease. This method of diagnosis usually takes less than an hour. However, the most common test used to diagnose this disease may produce false positives. In order to confirm the positive result, a Western blot assay is usually done.

Treatment

Just like in humans, there is no treatment for the immunodeficiency virus. Most cats infected with this virus die from secondary infections. If diagnosed, you will have to limit the amount of stress your cat endures. You should also keep him away from other animals to prevent disease. Antibiotics can also be used for the secondary infections. You should also make sure your cat has plenty of fluids and follows a good diet.

Prognosis

After diagnosis, a cat’s lifespan can vary widely. Felines infected with this virus may not show any symptoms at all for years. However, once the disease advances, cats usually die within a year.

All owners should know a little something about various cat illnesses such as feline hypertension. Fortunately for you, cat-illnesses.com is a great resource for all owners. Stop by right now to learn about some of these health problems.

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