Content
- chlamydophila felis
- Does chladiosis spread from cats to humans?
- Feline Chlamydiosis Symptoms
- Treatment for Feline Chlamydiosis
- Prevention of Chlamydiosis in Cats
THE feline chladiosis is bacterial disease highly contagious that primarily affects the eyes and upper respiratory tract, although the causative bacteria can also lodge in cats' genitalia. The pathology is more frequent among young stray cats or those who live in groups, however, it can affect cats of all ages, whether crossbred or of a defined breed.
If you have just adopted a cute kitten, it is very important that you seek out your trusted veterinarian to check its health status and rule out possible illnesses that threaten its well-being. In this article by Animal Expert, you will be able to know the main forms of contagion, the causes and Feline Chlamydiosis Symptoms.
chlamydophila felis
Feline Chlamydiosis is caused by a type of gram-negative bacteria called Chlamydophila felis. Currently, it is estimated that about 30% of feline conjunctivitis diagnoses are related to chlamydia. Furthermore, it was recognized that the bacteria Chlamydophila felis it usually acts in association with calicivirus and feline rhinotracheitis.
the bacteria Chlamydophiles they may remain dormant in the environment, but they need a host to reproduce. That's why they enter the feline organism, where they find high availability of food and a safe environment. When they enter the cat's body, the its incubation period is 3 to 10 days.
On the other hand, the form of Contagion occurs by direct contact with secretions nasal and ocular of infected cats. Therefore, cats that live in groups are especially vulnerable to this pathology.
Previously, chlamydiosis was known as "feline pneumonia", but the nomenclature was not very precise, as these bacteria hardly ever reach the lungs. They are usually concentrated in the eyes and upper respiratory tract, causing constant conjunctivitis and possible rhinitis.
Does chladiosis spread from cats to humans?
chladiosis cannot be transmitted to humans by infected cats, however, transmission is very easy between cats. That is why we insist on precaution and visit the vet before the first symptom, especially if we have just rescued a stray cat, our cat has escaped or has come into contact with sick cats.
Feline Chlamydiosis Symptoms
The first visible sign of feline chladiosis is a frequent water discharge which may appear in one or both eyes. In general, the eyeballs of affected cats have excessive moisture, making it tear up constantly. In many cases, the redness and swelling of the third eyelid are also observed.
If the disease is not treated quickly, the watery discharge becomes increasingly viscous and purulent (the typical green color of pus). At this stage, the cat is more vulnerable to the formation of ulcers around the eyess and in the corneas, in addition to connective edema. Fever, fatigue, loss of appetite and weight are also common.
In more advanced cases, the respiratory system may be compromised. The affected feline may have nasal dischargeandconstant sneezing, which is usually caused by a rhinitis condition. However, the infection rarely reaches the lungs, and lung lesions due to chladiosis are very rare.
Treatment for Feline Chlamydiosis
When noticing any of the above symptoms in your cat, it is essential to go quickly to the vet so that they can advise you on how to treat feline chlamydiosis. At the clinic, the professional will perform the clinical and complementary exams necessary to analyze the health of your pet and recognize possible pathologies. If the diagnosis of feline chlamydiosis is confirmed, treatment will depend on the health status and evolution of the pathology in each feline.
In general, the antibiotics are essential to contain reproduction and fight bacteria Chlamydophila felis. They can be prescribed orally (medicines), intravenously or through solutions (eye drops). Remember that antibiotics should always be prescribed by a medical professional. Self-medication is very dangerous and increases the resistance of bacteria, making it difficult to treat the chlamydophila felis.
Even taking antibiotics, affected cats can have a sticky or dark discharge for days and even weeks. So it will be important clean eyes and nose daily of your kitten until the discharge completely disappears. The veterinarian may recommend some specific wipes or just a clean gauze slightly moistened with salt or warm water.
During treatment, it is essential that the affected cat be separated from other cats to prevent further infections. It will also be necessary to reinforce the hygiene of the house and disinfect the environment and objects used by the cats. Remember that bacteria can lie dormant in accessories, toys, litter boxes, scrapers, etc. Beware of traditional cleaning products as the chemicals in their formula can poison cats and irritate their mucous membranes. The ideal is to opt for "pet friendly" antibacterial disinfectants, that is, made especially for households with pets.
Prevention of Chlamydiosis in Cats
The best way to prevent feline chlamydiosis is to provide proper preventative medicine, a positive environment, and the necessary care that will allow your furry friend to strengthen the immune system and preserve your good health. For this, it is essential to carry out periodic visits to the veterinarian every 6 months, respect the schedule of vaccination and periodic deworming, provide a balanced diet and keep you physically and mentally stimulated throughout your life. Don't hesitate to quickly go to your trusted professional to identify any changes in your cat's appearance or behavior.
On the other hand, sterilization may be recommended to prevent the escape of cats during the heat period. Remember that chlamydiosis, like many other infectious diseases, is easily transmitted during sex or in street fights.
This article is for information purposes only, at PeritoAnimal.com.br we are not able to prescribe veterinary treatments or perform any type of diagnosis. We suggest that you take your pet to the veterinarian in case it has any type of condition or discomfort.