Like humans, cats can develop infections that affect their overall well-being. Early detection is an important step in helping your cat recover, whether the infection is a minor inconvenience or a serious health concern. As cat owners, we must understand everything about infections in cats and what to do to help.

What is an Infection in Cats?

An infection results from an invasion of bacteria, fungi, or viruses. This results in various symptoms depending on the pathogen involved. If this condition is left unattended, the effects of the infection will be more devastating, leading to more painful and fatal symptoms.

Signs of Infection in Cats

There will be some very clear signs that tell you that your cat is having an infection. Here are some of the common signs you’ll see:

• Inflammation

• Sneezing

• Discharge

• Difficulty Breathing

• Nasal Congestion

• Itching and Pawing

• Diarrhea

• Lethargy

Causes of Infection in Cats

Infections can range from various reasons, all posing threats to your cat’s health. To get the right help for our best friends, we must understand everything about what causes it. With that said, here are the common causes of infection in cats:

Bacteria

Bacteria are one of the most common causes of infections in cats because they are prevalent in their surroundings. Some of the common culprits include Staphylococcus, E. coli, and Salmonella. Each type of bacterial infection has distinct symptoms that distinguish it from the rest.

• Skin Infections

If you have observed open wounds around your cat, it’s important to patch those up and clean its skin with a safe and sterile solution. These wounds can usually come from accidents, animal fights, and cuts. If things get worse, a wound infection could happen. 

In the skin infections in cats coming from wounds, you’ll notice tender and swollen areas. This could also be accompanied by discharge, pain, sensitivity, and a foul-smelling liquid. In some cases, your cat gradually gets lethargic. You’ll also notice them licking the area more often due to the discomfort.

• Urinary Tract Infections

Urinary tract infections are infections as a result of bacteria in the urinary tract. This can be observed by your cat’s behavior. If you see it taking more trips to the litter box, experiencing difficulty relieving, and having blood in the urine, it could be a sign of a urinary tract infection.

Other signs could be increased irritability, stress, excessive grooming, and licking of the genital area. These behaviors are a result of the discomfort cats feel.

• Respiratory Infections

Respiratory issues and infections can also be caused by bacteria, especially in environments where cats and other animals are kept in close proximity. These can include shelters, boarding areas, and daycares. 

The key signs of a respiratory infection include sneezing, persistent coughing, nasal discharge, and difficulty breathing. Besides clear symptoms, you can also notice your cat being lethargic, losing their appetite, and having no energy for activities.

Viruses

Viral infections are common in cats, which is why vaccines are in place and recommended to help prevent these dangerous diseases. These infections are often hard to treat, with some being incurable. Because of this, prevention is a huge step when keeping your cat safe from viral infections.

• Rabies Infection

Rabies infection is one of the most common and deadly diseases in cats and other animals. Humans can also be affected by an encounter with a rabies-infected animal. Outdoor cats hold a much greater risk as they are exposed to a number of stray animals who are most likely rabid. 

In a rabies infection, the early signs start with fever, lethargy, and a change in behavior. You’ll notice your cat gradually get extremely aggressive and irritable. As the disease advances, cats may develop muscle paralysis, excessive drooling, and seizures. Paralysis often starts in the hind legs and progresses to the rest of the body.

• Feline Herpesvirus Infection

FHV is a highly contagious infection in cats that is usually transmitted in shelters and boarding facilities. Sneezing, nasal congestion, wheezing, watery eyes, and eye discharge are some of the common signs of an FHV infection you’ll see in your cat. 

Cats with FHV are also observed to be less interested in activities, grooming, and eating. They are usually seen struggling with their discomfort, and they often prefer to be alone in comfortable and quiet spaces.

• Feline Calicivirus Infection

Feline calicivirus is a super deadly virus that can cause a lot of problems for your cat’s respiratory system, eyes, and oral health. Transmission is versatile, as the virus can be spread through the air during sneezing, contact with urine and feces, and contact with infected animals, humans, and objects. 

Some of the key signs you’ll notice if your cat has an FCV infection include nasal congestion, sneezing, and discharge from both the eyes and the nose. Ulcers in the gums, lips, and nose could also be observed, followed by fever and lethargy.

• Feline Immunodeficiency Virus Infection

The feline immunodeficiency virus causes a deadly viral infection that weakens the immune system, lowering the protection of infected cats and making them vulnerable to other infections and diseases. From this infection, lots of secondary infections and diseases could make your cat’s health worse, leading to more deadly effects.

Some signs you could look out for include poor coat condition, fever, weight loss, and several respiratory infections. Your cat will be significantly weaker and feel the need to just lie down and rest. 

• Feline Leukemia Virus Infection

Just like an FIV infection, FeLV can also weaken your cat’s immune system and pave the way for more infections and diseases to overlap. It’s highly contagious, which makes it super hard to contain. The infection is usually transmitted through the urine, feces, and saliva of infected cats, which can be prevalent in daycares and shelters.

You can notice your cat to be lethargic, with respiratory conditions and symptoms occurring. This comes with weight loss, diarrhea, and vomiting in some cases. You’ll also start to see your cat having large lymph nodes. 

Fungi

Fungal infections can also be another type of infection your cat faces. Common types include Rhinosporidiosis, Cryptococcosis, and Aspergillosis.

• Ringworm

A ringworm infection in cats typically affects their skin, with clear signs such as hair loss, scaly skin, and inflamed areas. Cats can usually get a ringworm infection from direct contact with other animals and human interaction. These skin conditions can appear on their paws, head, and ears, making them super easy to detect. 

When it comes to their behavior, cats will usually groom themselves excessively while showing discomfort because of the irritation caused.

• Cryptococcosis

Cryptococcosis is a fungal infection that happens in cats when they inhale or ingest the mold spores. These spores can come from your cat’s environment and enter its body through any openings around the skin, such as an open wound. When this happens, your cat will face a lot of respiratory, eye, and skin problems.

Some signs of cryptococcosis include sneezing, nasal discharge, difficulty breathing, and swelling around your cat’s nose. Your cat will also feel weaker and less active, wanting to rest more often.

• Aspergillosis

Cats can contract aspergillosis when they have weakened immune systems, since this infection is only likely to happen when cats are in this state. The fungi are present in hay, grass clippings, and objects from moldy environments. 

Some signs of aspergillosis include sneezing, discharge, nasal congestion, and nosebleeds in some cases. Because your cat’s immune system is weakened, they’ll be more likely to feel the effects even more. You’ll notice they want to rest, lie down, and be alone.

Parasitic Infections

Parasites, both internal and external, can be a cause of infections for cats. While parasites themselves are harmful, they can also pave the way for secondary infections from the pathogens they carry.

• Fleas and Ticks

Fleas and ticks are common parasites that affect household cats. Fleas often cause cats to scratch excessively, leading to bald spots and irritated skin, which tends to appear in specific areas. You might also notice flea dirt on your cat’s coat.

Ticks, on the other hand, can trigger localized swelling and redness from their bites. Cats often respond by grooming the area excessively, which only increases the irritation and inflammation.

• Ear Mites

Ear mites are tiny parasites that cause intense itching and discomfort in a cat’s ears. Key signs of an ear mite infection include brown or black debris in the ears, frequent scratching at the ears, and a red or swollen appearance of the ears.

Cats with ear mites may become agitated and shake their heads or scratch their ears constantly. They may also seem less responsive to sounds if the infection leads to hearing difficulties.

• Intestinal Parasites

Parasites such as roundworms, tapeworms, or hookworms can be very troubling for your cats through the organs they affect. Common reactions you can expect include vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss.

You’ll also notice your cat having a decreased appetite and feeling more dehydrated as they vomit and poop more. 

Treating an Infection in Cats

Treating infections in cats starts by identifying the cause of the condition. Once we’ve identified the cause, we’ll use these treatment options during your cat’s visit:

Treating Bacterial Infections

Treating bacterial infections makes use of antibiotics in several forms. These forms include topical treatments and oral medications. Supportive treatments will be used in order to effectively remove the bacteria for good, giving your cat time to heal.

Treating Viral Infections

Viral infections are a special case, as they cannot be treated so easily. Our vets will manage your cat’s symptoms, ensuring that their immune systems get stronger and avoiding any potential secondary infections. In some cases, antiviral medicines can be used. Because of the difficulty of treating these infections, we always recommend vaccinating your cat against these diseases.

Treating Fungal Infections

Fungal infections can be treated with the right medications, either in the form of topical medicines or oral treatments. Medicated shampoos can also be a good fix, as these help clean your cat’s coat and make it healthier. Do note that these infections can take a long time to treat, which is why a consistent routine is needed to ensure a steady recovery.

Treating Parasitic Infections

External parasites are treated with topical treatments and oral medications to remove their presence and their deadly effects. This is followed by a regular schedule for preventive treatments to make sure they never come back.

For internal parasites, deworming medications will be your best bet. Our team will recommend the best deworming treatments for your cat’s case, and we’ll help you with the entire process.

Conclusion

The signs of infections in cats can vary, as they both affect the physical and mental state of our best friends. Knowing the signs, causes, and treatment options available helps us determine the care our cats deserve. Our clinic is always ready to help you with your cat’s troubles. Let’s keep your best friends happy.