If your cat is sneezing or has discharge from its eyes, it may be due to Chlamydia. Chlamydia in cats is a bacteria that causes respiratory tract infections in cats. It's highly contagious and spread through ocular secretions via fomite and aerosol transmission. Young cats are commonly infected with chlamydia and it's one of the most common causes of feline conjunctivitis. Treatment consists of antibiotic therapy and the prognosis is generally good.
What is chlamydia in cats and how is it transmitted?
Chlamydia in cats is caused by the bacteria Chlamydia felis. The majority of infections are caused by contact with ocular secretions, with secondary transmission via direct physical contact or contaminated surfaces and fomites.
The incubation period of chlamydia in cats is 3-5 days and bacterial shedding can occur for up to 60 days post-infection. The chlamydia bacteria can spread internally and infect many tissues such as the lungs, spleen, liver, and kidneys. Although chlamydial infections in cats are typically associated with ocular conjunctivitis, it is generally considered a systemic disease.
Chlamydia felis is a common cause of feline conjunctivitis and one of the most prevalent causes of upper respiratory tract infections in cats. Chlamydiosis is most commonly found in cats less than one-year-old. However, cats over five years of age are much less likely to contract the illness because they have developed immunity. Infection rates are higher in multicat households and overcrowded environments.
What are the symptoms of chlamydia in cats?
Cats can develop conjunctivitis, both acute and chronic. Respiratory signs can also develop, but these are less common than with other respiratory pathogens. Interestingly, cats with chlamydia often remain active and eat well. Common symptoms of chlamydia in cats include:
- Ocular redness and swelling
- Squinting
- Ocular discharge
- Nasal discharge
- Sneezing
How is chlamydia in cats diagnosed?
The diagnosis of chlamydiosis in cats can be difficult as there are many other causes of conjunctivitis and respiratory disease. Laboratory tests, such as a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay or enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), can be used to detect chlamydia bacteria. Conjunctival swabs and cytology can also be of diagnostic importance.
How is chlamydia in cats treated?
Chlamydiosis in cats is treated with antibiotics. The most common antibiotics used are tetracyclines, amoxicillin-clavulanate, and azithromycin. Treatment is generally continued for 6-8 weeks, especially for chronic infections. Supportive care, such as eye ointments or drops may also be prescribed.
Warm compresses and frequent cleaning of the eyes and nostrils may be necessary. It is possible to help treat respiratory congestion in cats by placing them daily in steamy bathrooms.
Can chlamydia in cats spread to people?
There have been a few reports of zoonotic transmission of Chlamydia felis from cats to people. In many cases, there is only circumstantial evidence that felis spread from cats to people. Chlamydia felis can be transmitted zoonotically only if extensive contaminants are introduced to the eyes (e.g. rubbing your eyes after handling a symptomatic cat).
In conclusion, if your cat is displaying symptoms such as swelling and discharge from its eyes, it may have chlamydia. Chlamydia in cats is a bacteria that causes respiratory tract infections and is highly contagious. It can be treated with antibiotics but the prognosis is generally good. Young cats are mostly infected and it is one of the most common causes of feline conjunctivitis. If you are concerned that your cat may be suffering from chlamydia, please contact your veterinarian.