Kennel Cough
Symptoms in Cats
While kennel cough is often considered a dog disease, cats may be carriers of the bacteria or may suffer from it as well. Because of their underdeveloped immune systems, kittens are especially susceptible and may die suddenly if left untreated.
Cat Symptoms
Cats with kennel cough may sneeze or cough, have runny noses, run high temperatures, breathe noisily or have swollen lymph nodes. But cats with infections also may show no symptoms at all.
Considerations
Cats with upper-respiratory infections--basically, colds--may be especially prone to developing secondary bacterial infections like kennel cough and pneumonia. Cats and kittens in stressful or high-density situations may also be more likely to be infected and the bacteria spreads rapidly.
Treatment
Cats with kennel cough can be successfully treated with antibiotics, but some untreated cases may result in sudden death.
How Common?
Although none showed symptoms, more than 24 percent of cats in one Louisiana shelter had been exposed to the bacteria that causes kennel cough, according to a Louisiana State University study.
Prevention
Just like dogs, cats at risk of kennel cough can be vaccinated to protect them from developing the disease. The vaccine is delivered directly into a cat's nose.
Fun Fact
The bacteria that causes kennel cough in both cats and dogs is closely related to the bacteria that causes whooping cough in humans.
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