Cat fungal infections can affect different parts of the body, from the skin to the respiratory system and even internal organs. These infections happen when cats are exposed to fungal spores in the environment, which can enter the body through inhalation, ingestion, or wounds on the skin.
While many fungi live harmlessly in the environment, certain types can cause serious infections in cats, especially those with weakened immune systems. In this blog, we’ll discover all about it and know how to treat fungal infections in cats.
There are a ton of cat fungal diseases because of how many species there are. We’ve narrowed it down to some of the most common ones.
Ringworm
Ringworm is one of the most common types of cat fungal infections. Despite its misleading name, this is not caused by worms, but by fungi called dermatophytes. This fungal disease mainly affects the cat’s skin, hair, and nails. Plus, it’s also highly contagious.
This means cats can easily get ringworm by touching infected animals and contaminated spaces. The signs of ringworm include:
Circular patches of hair loss
Red, scaly, and inflamed skin
Brittle nails
Itching and discomfort
The treatment for this cat fungal infection will revolve around antifungal creams, ointments, and shampoos. Since it’s contagious, home cleaning is crucial.
Cryptococcosis
Another dangerous type of fungal infection in cats is cryptococcosis. This is a respiratory infection that can also lead to eye, skin, and nervous system damage.
The main causes of this cat fungal disease are Cryptococcus neoformans and Cryptococcus gattii. They can generally be found in decaying wood, soil, and bird droppings. Common signs are:
Persistent sneezing with discharge
Swelling around the nose or face
Weight loss, lethargy, and reduced appetite
Breathing difficulties
Cryptococcosis is treated with long-term antifungal medication like fluconazole and itraconazole. Sometimes, surgical removal of lesions and affected tissues will be required.
Aspergillosis
Aspergillosis is a cat fungal disease caused by fungi from the Aspergillus family. This disease mostly affects the nasal passageways and sinuses. However, it can also spread to other organs like the lungs.
Cats typically contract aspergillosis by inhaling fungal spores from contaminated environments. The signs are:
Chronic sneezing and nasal discharge
Swelling or pain around the nose and face
Lethargy and fever
Respiratory, gastrointestinal, and neurological issues
The primary treatment for aspergillosis in cats is antifungal medication. In some cases, surgery may be needed to remove the fungal growths blocking the airways.
Histoplasmosis
Another type of fungal infection in cats is histoplasmosis, caused by Histoplasma capsulatum. It typically begins in the lungs but can spread to other organs, such as the liver, spleen, and bone marrow.
This fungal disease gets into cats when they inhale or ingest the spores from soil contaminated with bird or bat droppings. The signs include:
Fever, lethargy, and weight loss
Coughing, difficulty breathing, and discharge
Vomiting and diarrhea
Enlarged lymph nodes
Treatment will usually last 6 months to a year, and will involve antifungal medications, oxygen therapy, and IV fluids.
Sporotrichosis
Sporotrichosis is caused by the fungus Sporothrix schenckii. It primarily affects the cat’s skin, but can also spread to the lymph nodes and internal organs in severe cases. What’s worse is that this fungal disease is zoonotic, meaning cats can spread this disease to humans.
Cats usually contract sporotrichosis from contaminated soil, plants, and organic matter. The fungus enters through open wounds and scratches on the skin, but can also spread through inhalation. Common signs are:
Small, firm bumps or nodules on the skin
Crusty or ulcerated skin lesions
Fever, lethargy, and anorexia
Respiratory problems
Sporotrichosis is usually treated with long-term antifungal therapy, with itraconazole as the common option. In severe cases, potassium iodide will be used. The whole course of treatment can span several months.
Blastomycosis
Blastomycosis is caused by Blastomyces dermatitidis, a fungal infection in cats that usually begins in the lungs but can spread to the skin, bones, and nervous system. While it’s relatively rare compared to other types, it’s very serious and fatal.
This cat fungal disease spreads when cats inhale or ingest the spores found in moist and swampy areas. These spores can also enter the cat through open wounds on the skin. Common signs are:
Coughing and difficulty breathing
Skin lesions and sores that don’t heal
Eye inflammation and discharge
Changes in behaviors, seizures, or disorientation
Blastomycosis will require long-term treatment with oral antifungal medication, along with IV fluids, pain meds, and oxygen therapy.
Coccidioidomycosis
Coccidioidomycosis, also known as Valley Fever, is caused by Coccidioides immitis or Coccidioides posadasii. This fungal disease is common in desert regions, with cats getting infected when they inhale the fungal spores.
While it starts in the cat’s lungs, the infection can spread throughout the body via the bloodstream. Common signs include:
Coughing, sneezing, and difficulty breathing
Skin lesions and abscesses
Eye pain and light sensitivity
Behavioral changes and seizures
Treatment for this fungal infection in cats will require fluconazole long-term, sometimes up to a year. Other treatments will be needed to support liver health and minimize symptoms.
Phaeohyphomycosis
Phaeohyphomycosis is a rare cat fungal infection that’s caused by dark-pigmented fungi that can invade through open wounds and skin abrasions. This usually affects the skin, but can worsen into the surrounding tissues.
Cats with weakened immune systems from conditions like FeLV or FIV can be prone to this disease. The usual signs of phaeohyphomycosis are:
Nodules or masses under the skin
Ulcerated or draining lesions
Coughing, difficulty breathing, and bloody nasal discharge
Neurological symptoms in severe cases
The treatment process for phaeohyphomycosis will revolve around the surgical excision of lesions and antifungal therapy.
Candidiasis
Candidiasis is a disease that's caused by an overgrowth of Candida. While this opportunistic fungus is present in the body, it's when the cat's immune system is compromised does this becomes a problem.
The fungi can overgrow in moist areas, like the mouth, ears, or skin folds. In severe cases, it can affect multiple organs. Common signs include:
Itching, scratching, and redness
Dry, flaky skin and hair loss
Bad breath and drooling
Lethargy, decreased appetite, and fever
The main treatment option for candidiasis will include oral antifungal medications like fluconazole, or amphotericin B for severe cases. For skin infections, we may also use topical creams and antifungal ointments.
Rhinosporidiosis
Rhinosporidiosis is a fungal infection caused by Rhinosporidium seeberi, a type of parasite with fungus-like characteristics. Cats with rhinosporidiosis may experience a growth of polyp-like masses in the nose.
Cats can get rhinosporidiosis when they’re exposed to contaminated water. It happens when the spores enter the body through the nasal passages or small wounds. The signs include:
Sneezing and nasal discharge
Nasal polyps
Breathing difficulties
Eye discharge and mouth ulcers
The main treatment option for rhinosporidiosis is the surgical removal of the infected polyps. This will be combined with medication and other methods to prevent spreading and recurrence.
“Protecting your cat’s health starts with knowing the possible diseases.”
- Dr. Soheyl Simaei
Final Thoughts
Fungal infections are just some of the many problems your cat can have, and having even the slightest knowledge can allow you to help your cat. With our help, we can make the lives of your cats better and healthier. Visit the clinic today for your cat’s first checkup.
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