Nov 14, 2024
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 through 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.
Types of Cat Fungal Infection
Fungal infections in cats can vary in severity, as they can negatively impact different parts of a cat’s body, from the skin to its internal organs. Thankfully, most types of infections can easily be treated with a quick visit and medicines from our vet pharmacy. Here are some of the common types of cat fungal infections:
Ringworm
While the name might be misleading, the cause is not actually from worms but from fungi. Ringworm is caused by a group of fungi called the dermatophytes. The disease affects a cat’s skin, nails, and hair while being super contagious in itself. The fungi that cause ringworm can stay in bedding, pillows, towels, and other surfaces around the house. This makes it extremely hard to control.
Symptoms of Ringworm
Cats dealing with ringworms are observed to have several symptoms that are clearly indicative of a ringworm infestation. These include hair loss in circular patches, scaly skin, and inflamed skin. In some cases, the cat’s nails could also become brittle, with an infection around the paws causing the problem.
Treatment for Ringworm
The main treatment options for ringworms involve topical treatments, oral medications, and medicated shampoos. These would be used according to our vets’ prescription. Topical and oral medications will directly deal with the fungal infection, while the medicated shampoo will help manage your cat’s symptoms and keep its skin healthy and stronger.
As an added precaution, it’s always important to take good care of the home by regularly washing any surface your cat loves to lie in, such as bedding, pillows, and blankets.
Cryptococcosis
Cryptococcosis is a very dangerous cat fungal infection that happens when they inhale the spores of the fungi. The main culprits of this disease are Cryptococcus neoformans and Cryptococcus gattii. The main areas in which these fungi reside are decaying wood, soil, and other organic matter outside. While inhaling is the most common mode of transmission, the spores can also get in through a cat’s eyes, urinary tract, and open wounds.
Symptoms of Cryptococcosis
The first things you’ll notice about your cat if it has cryptococcosis is sneezing and a nasal discharge that may be bloody or yellow. As the cat fungal infection starts to worsen, you’ll start to notice swelling and weight loss. You’ll also notice your cat starting to have difficulty breathing, which can cause some serious consequences.
Treatment for Cryptococcosis
The main treatment option for cryptococcosis will be antifungal medications. These can come in the form of fluconazole or itraconazole, depending on our vet’s assessment. We’ll provide a routine medication schedule that should be followed at all times to prevent the fungi from causing any more trouble. In addition to this, regular vet checkups are essential to keep track of your cat’s recovery progress.
Aspergillosis
Aspergillosis is caused by the fungus of a similar name, Aspergillus. These fungi are often found in outdoor environments, such as soil, decaying vegetables, and dust. Just like cryptococcosis, cats can get infected by this fungi by inhaling its spores. The disease is more of an opportunistic kind, as it becomes active when a cat’s immune system is weakened.
Symptoms of Aspergillosis
Cats with aspergillosis often suffer from chronic sneezing, nasal discharge (which may be bloody), and facial pain. There may also be visible swelling around the nose, and in more serious cases, the infection can cause respiratory distress and lead to lethargy and vomiting.
Treatment for Aspergillosis
The primary treatment for aspergillosis is the use of antifungal medications like itraconazole or posaconazole. In cases where the infection is concentrated in the nasal passages, topical antifungal treatments may be applied directly to the affected area. Pet surgery might be needed if fungal growths obstruct the nasal passages or cause significant damage.
Histoplasmosis
Histoplasmosis is a result of the effects of the fungi Histoplasma capsulatum, which is found in areas rich in bird or bat droppings. Cats inhale fungal spores, which initially affect the lungs, though the infection can spread through the bloodstream, causing damage to the spleen, liver, and bone marrow.
Symptoms of Histoplasmosis
Common symptoms of histoplasmosis include coughing, fever, and difficulty breathing. Cats may also experience weight loss, lethargy, and diarrhea, especially if the infection has spread beyond the lungs. In severe cases, enlarged lymph nodes and liver or spleen abnormalities may occur.
Treatment for Histoplasmosis
Treatment for histoplasmosis involves long-term medication that should be continued for at least four to six months. Popular treatments against this cat fungal infection, such as fluconazole and itraconazole, can be used, and they have proven to be somewhat effective in curing cats. However, regular vet checkups should be done to assess the effectiveness of the treatment.
Sporotrichosis
Sporotrichosis is a cat fungal infection that takes its roots from the fungus Sporothrix schenckii. The fungi are typically located in outdoor environments, with soil and plants as their main homes. Because this fungal infection is zoonotic, meaning it can spread from animals to humans, it’s super important to handle cats carefully. The disease is primarily transmitted through inhaling and abrasions on the skin.
Symptoms of Sporotrichosis
Cats who are dealing with sporotrichosis can be observed to have small and firm bumps around their skin. In some cases, they’ll have lymph disease and dermal lesions, with crusty skin. In disseminated sporotrichosis, fever, weight loss, and anorexia are to be expected, with a risk of the fungal infection spreading to the brain.
Treatment for Sporotrichosis
The standard treatment is long-term antifungal therapy with itraconazole. Because of its zoonotic potential, gloves should be worn when handling infected cats, and their environment should be disinfected regularly. Sporotrichosis can take several months to resolve fully, so patience and careful hygiene are key to managing this infection.
Blastomycosis
Blastomycosis is caused by Blastomyces dermatitidis, a fungus that lives in moist and damp environments, such as swamps. Cats can get this disease by either ingesting or inhaling the spores of the fungi. Additionally, the spores can enter the cat’s body through open wounds. While the fungal infection is not contagious, it can prove fatal.
Symptoms of Blastomycosis
Early symptoms include coughing, fever, and difficulty breathing. As the infection spreads, cats may develop skin lesions, eye inflammation, or bone pain. Advanced cases may result in severe weight loss, lethargy, and even neurological symptoms if the brain becomes involved.
Treatment for Blastomycosis
Treatment for blastomycosis will ultimately depend on your cat’s condition. Antifungal medications like itraconazole are typically prescribed for blastomycosis. Cats with respiratory distress may require supportive care, including oxygen therapy and fluids. Treatment can last for months, and prognosis improves with early intervention.
Coccidioidomycosis
Coccidioidomycosis, or Valley Fever, is caused by Coccidioides immitis, a fungus commonly found in desert regions. Cats become infected by inhaling fungal spores from contaminated soil. The infection typically begins in the lungs when the spores get inhaled, but they can quickly spread through the bloodstream and cause problems in other parts of the cat’s body.
Symptoms of Coccidioidomycosis
Cats with Valley Fever often show signs of persistent coughing, fever, and lethargy. In advanced cases, the infection can cause lameness, bone pain, or skin lesions if it spreads beyond the respiratory system. Decreased appetite and weight loss are common symptoms of this disease in severe cases.
Treatment for Coccidioidomycosis
Treatment involves long-term use of antifungal medications like fluconazole. Supportive care options can also be used to help give the treatment options a hand. These will consist of pain relief medications and hydration therapy if needed.
Phaeohyphomycosis
Phaeohyphomycosis is a rare cat fungal infection that is primarily caused by pigmented fungi that usually enter the body through wounds or skin abrasions. It primarily affects the skin but can spread to other nearby tissues if left untreated.
Symptoms of Phaeohyphomycosis
Cats with phaeohyphomycosis may develop masses that are found on the face, toes, and nasal passages. These nodules can also become ulcerated. If the infection spreads internally, cats may experience lethargy, fever, and poor appetite.
Treatment for Phaeohyphomycosis
The treatment for phaeohyphomycosis will usually involve a combination of antifungal medications like itraconazole and surgical intervention. The prognosis will be dependent on the severity of the fungal infection, but early intervention increases the likelihood of recovery.
Candidiasis
Candidiasis is a cat fungal infection that is caused by Candida, an opportunistic fungus that is normally present in the body. The condition refers to an overgrowth of the fungus when the immune system of cats is weakened, which can take place in a localized or systemic area.
Symptoms of Candidiasis
The symptoms of candidiasis will depend on where the fungal infection takes place. Cats with candidiasis on their ears will constantly scratch them due to irritation. Those with a dental candidiasis infection will experience excessive drooling. Generally, cats will experience irritation and inflammation in the specific areas affected.
Treatment of Candidiasis
The treatment process for candidiasis will involve a combination of several antifungal medicines, such as fluconazole and amphotericin B. In addition to these, supportive therapy will be done to help manage the cat’s symptoms and provide relief.
Rhinosporidiosis
Rhinosporidiosis is a rare fungal infection caused by Rhinosporidium seeberi, which will primarily affect the nose. While the areas where these fungi are found are still relatively unknown, cats become infected when exposed to water contaminated with fungal spores.
Symptoms of Rhinosporidiosis
The symptoms of rhinosporidiosis include sneezing, difficulty breathing, lethargy, and weakness. Generally, the fungal infection will cause extreme discomfort for cats, which can be observed through vocalizations and behavioral changes that point to stress.
Treatment for Rhinosporidiosis
When it comes to treating rhinosporidiosis, the main treatment options will include antifungal medications and surgery. The polyps will be removed, and medications will be used to prevent the disease from recurring. Follow-up checkups will be required to monitor your cat’s condition.
Conclusion
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.