Pneumonia in Cats

Pneumonia is an inflammation of your cat's lungs and airways that needs to be treated right away. Here, our Cincinnati vets share more about the causes, signs, and treatments for pneumonia in cats. 

Causes of Pneumonia in Cats

If certain viruses, bacteria, or fungal organisms can invade your cat's airways, they can develop into inflammation or infection which may lead to pneumonia. When cats have pneumonia, they experience breathing difficulties, oxygen deficiencies, and a weakened immune system.

Although pneumonia can develop in cats of any age, our Cincinnati vets see this condition develop most often in senior cats, young kittens, and cats with underlying conditions. pneumonia can be contracted in cats in several different ways:

Parasites

In some cases, parasites including lungworms and flukes can invade the cat's air passages and result in pneumonia.

Infectious Pneumonia   

Infectious pneumonia results from a viral or bacterial infection in the lungs and airways, this is the most common form of pneumonia seen in cats.

Aspiration Pneumonia

Aspiration pneumonia is caused by the cat inhaling a foreign material, which leads to irritation of the sensitive lining of the lungs. A common cause of aspiration pneumonia in cats is the improper administration of liquid medications, or the inhalation of vomit if the cat is sick.

Fungal Pneumonia (also called mycotic pneumonia)

Fungal pneumonia begins as a fungal infection that progresses into the development of pneumonia. The inhalation of spores from the soil is believed to be the source of most fungal infections in cats.

Signs & Symptoms of Pneumonia in Cats

Pneumonia in cats isn't always so straightforward to detect. Many symptoms of this condition are also associated with other illnesses and diseases. That being said, if your cat is suffering from pneumonia, they may display any of the following symptoms:

If your cat has aspiration pneumonia, they may also experience further symptoms such as an increased heart rate, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. Fungal pneumonia in cats is also capable of causing eye infections, skin lesions, or lameness. 

Transmissibility of Pneumonia in Cats

Cats suffering from viral or bacterial pneumonia can pass the infection on to other cats, dogs, and small animals whom they come in close contact.

To help stop the spread of pneumonia, it's a good idea to keep your cat separated from your other pets. Do this by keeping them comfortable, but contained, in a separate room. Make sure your sick cat has a comfortable place to rest, a clean litter box, and plenty of food and water.

Clean your cat's food and water bowls frequently, as well as their litter box, and toys that may be contaminated. Also, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly after handling your unwell cat.

Recovering From Pneumonia

If diagnosed with pneumonia, your cat will begin treatment with your vet as soon as possible to help stabilize and fight their illness. Depending on how severe your cat's case is, treatments may include plenty of rest, hospitalization and monitoring, oxygen therapy, intravenous fluids, antibiotics, or other anti-fungal medications.

If your pet gets the treatment they need quickly, there is a good chance that they will recover from pneumonia. That being said, aspiration pneumonia is quite difficult to treat and can cause complications down the road. 

Your cat's age, physical fitness, underlying conditions, and the severity of their illness will all affect how well they can recover from pneumonia. Unfortunately, very young, old, or immunocompromised cats may not be strong enough to overcome this illness. 

Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. Please make an appointment with your vet for an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition.

Is your cat showing signs of pneumonia? Contact our Cincinnati vets as soon as possible so they can diagnose and treat your feline friend.