Can Cats Get Kennel Cough? Symptoms of Bordetella in Cats and When To Visit Your Vet

You've probably heard of kennel cough affecting dogs, but did you know that cats can catch it too? Despite its misleading name, kennel cough isn't exclusively a canine concern. Bordetella bronchiseptica, the primary culprit behind kennel cough, affects felines just as readily, particularly in multi-cat households, shelters, and rescue facilities. Understanding this condition could help you spot early warning signs and protect your cat's respiratory health before complications arise.

Understanding Bordetella in Cats

Bordetella bronchiseptica is a bacterium that causes highly contagious respiratory infections in cats. Unlike dogs, which typically develop kennel cough in kennels or boarding facilities, cats often contract bordetella through direct contact with infected cats or contaminated surfaces. The infection primarily affects the upper and lower respiratory tract, causing inflammation of the airways.

Cats with compromised immune systems, kittens under 16 weeks old, and elderly cats face higher risk. Overcrowded environments, poor ventilation, and high stress levels significantly increase transmission rates. Interestingly, some cats become chronic carriers, harbouring the bacteria without displaying obvious symptoms yet still spreading it to other felines.

Recognising Symptoms of Bordetella in Cats

Symptoms typically appear within 5-10 days of exposure. Watch for these signs:

Persistent dry cough, often described as hacking or gagging
Sneezing and nasal discharge (usually clear but may become yellowish)
Mild fever (temperature above 38.5°C)
Lethargy and reduced appetite
Conjunctivitis (watery, red eyes)
Laboured breathing or wheezing in severe cases

Symptoms may last 1-3 weeks in mild cases, though some cats experience prolonged coughing for several months. Secondary bacterial infections can complicate the picture, requiring additional treatment.

When to Contact Your Veterinarian

Schedule a vet appointment if your cat exhibits any respiratory symptoms lasting more than a few days. Seek urgent care if your cat:

Shows difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
Refuses to eat for more than 24 hours
Displays high fever or appears extremely lethargic
Produces discharge with blood or appears distressed

Early intervention prevents complications such as pneumonia, which can prove serious in vulnerable cats.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Your vet will perform a physical examination and may take respiratory secretion samples for bacterial culture. Blood tests help rule out other conditions like calicivirus or herpesvirus.

Treatment focuses on supportive care and managing secondary infections. Most cases resolve without antibiotics, but your vet may prescribe them if secondary bacterial infection occurs. Keep your cat in a well-ventilated, stress-free environment, ensure adequate hydration, and consider using a humidifier to ease breathing. Pain relief and appetite stimulants may help during recovery.

Prevention Strategies

Protection begins with prevention. The bordetella vaccine is available for cats at high risk, particularly those frequenting catteries or rescue shelters. Good hygiene practices matter too:

Wash hands thoroughly after handling other cats
Clean litter boxes and feeding bowls regularly
Maintain proper ventilation in multi-cat households
Isolate newly introduced or ill cats from others
Reduce stress through environmental enrichment and routine

Key Takeaways

Bordetella in cats is treatable but potentially serious without proper care. Though often self-limiting, early veterinary attention ensures appropriate management and prevents complications. If you suspect your cat has contracted kennel cough, don't delay seeking professional advice. Most cats recover fully with supportive care, but your proactive approach makes all the difference in their swift return to health and vitality.