Kennel Cough (Bordetella) in Cats

Overview and Facts

What is

• What is Bordetella?
Bordetella in cats is a contagious infection which develops when a cat is exposed to the Bordetella bronchiseptica bacteria. Bordetella infections are particularly harmful to young kittens and cats with compromised immune systems.

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Causes

• Causes of Bordetella in Cats
Cats become infected with bordetella when they come into contact with the bacteria Bordetella bronchiseptica. Cats can become infected with this disease from other cats and dogs that are infected with the bacteria.

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Symptoms and Types

Symptoms

• Symptoms of Bordetella
Symptoms of bordetella in cats are similar to upper respiratory infections. Cats with weakened immune systems, and kittens with undeveloped immune systems, can be more severely affected by the disease.

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Diagnosis and Tests

Diagnosis

• Diagnosing Bordetella in Cats
Bordetella in cats is diagnosed through identifying the Bordetella bronchiseptica bacteria or using a PCR test. The bacteria are most often collected using swabs of the nose and/or throat.

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Treatment and Care

Treatment

• Treating Bordetella in Cats
Feline bordetella can be successfully treated using antibiotic therapies. Treatment protocol in areas that house multiple cats includes treating all cats for the disease and using proper disinfecting measures.

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