Signs & Symptoms of Pneumonia in Cats

If your cat is experiencing breathing difficulties, losing weight or looking a bit scruffier than usual it could be pneumonia. Here our vets at Carolina Veterinary Specialists in Rock Hill explain more about the signs of pneumonia in cats as well as the causes and treatments for this serious condition.

Types of Pneumonia in Cats & What Causes Them

There are four main types of pneumonia seen in cats and each is categorized by the underlying cause of the condition. 

• Infectious pneumonia in cats 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 in cats 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 in cats (also called mycotic 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.
• Parasites such as lungworms and flukes can invade the cat's air passages and result in pneumonia.

Signs & Symptoms of Pneumonia in Cats

Although cats of any age can develop pneumonia the condition is predominantly seen in very young kittens, senior cats, and cats with other underlying health problems. Cats suffering from pneumonia experience breathing difficulties and oxygen deficiency in the blood, which typically weakens their immune system and leaves them susceptible to other conditions.

Pneumonia can be challenging to diagnose in cats since many of the symptoms are also associated with other common feline illnesses including other respiratory infections such as cat colds. That said, if your cat is suffering from pneumonia you may notice one or more of the following symptoms:

It's important to be aware that aspiration pneumonia in cats can cause additional symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, increased heart rate and vomiting. Whereas fungal pneumonia in cats can lead to eye or skin problems such as runny eyes and skin lesions, as well as lameness. 

If your cat is experiencing any of the symptoms above contact your vet right away to schedule an appointment for your feline friend. The best treatment outcomes are achieved when issues are diagnosed in the earliest stages and treatment begins right away.

Contagious Pneumonia (Viral Pneumonia)

Viral and bacterial pneumonia can be contagious to other cats, dogs, and small animals that come in close contact with your sick kitty.

Keep your sick cat indoors and separated from other pets in your home as they recover from pneumonia in order to help prevent the spread to other animals. Be sure to provide your cat with a comfy place to rest, a fresh clean litter box, and plenty of food and water.

Your cat's food and water bowls should be cleaned frequently, as well as their litter box, and any toys that may be contaminated. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling your sick kitty.

Treatment & Prognosis For Cats With Pneumonia

When your cat is first diagnosed with pneumonia your veterinarian will concentrate on stabilizing your cat's condition and addressing the most immediately serious symptoms, then treatment will focus on fighting the infection.

Depending upon the severity of your cat's symptoms and the type of pneumonia your cat has developed, treatment for pneumonia could include hospitalization for monitoring, oxygen therapy or a nebulizer treatment to help ease respiratory symptoms, as well as intravenous fluids to treat dehydration, and broad-spectrum antibiotics or anti-fungal medications.

For cats suffering from pneumonia, the prognosis is generally good if they receive an early diagnosis and treatment, however, aspiration pneumonia can be especially difficult to treat and often leads to further health complications.

The underlying cause of your cat's pneumonia, as well as your pet's overall health, and age will all play a role in how well your cat recovers from pneumonia. Unfortunately, very old cats, young kittens, and immunocompromised cats may not be strong enough to battle a severe case of pneumonia.

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