Respiratory Disease Complex in Cats

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                      General Information



Various infectious organisms have been isolated from the

respiratory tract of cats.  Most of these organisms are

contagious, and some can cause fatal disease.  These organisms

include rhinotracheitis virus, calicivirus, Chlamydia psittaci,

reoviruses, Mycoplasma and various bacteria.  In most cases,

isolation of the offending organism is neither necessary nor

cost-effective.  Respiratory diseases are transmitted by direct

contact with infected cats or discharges from their eyes, nose,

mouth or other body fluids.  Some of these organisms are spread

by contaminated clothing, hands, feeding utensils, grooming

equipment and other articles.  In a few cases, the organisms are

air-borne for short distances.  The most common signs of

respiratory disease are sneezing, cough, discharge from the

eyes, nose or mouth, difficult breathing, gagging, lack of

appetite and weight loss.  Some infections last only a few days,

while others may be present for weeks or months.  Some of these

disease agents exist in a carrier state in apparently healthy

cats.



                 Important Points in Treatment



1.  While most respiratory infections can be treated at home,

    severely ill cats require hospitalization and repeated

    laboratory tests and radiographs (x-rays) to monitor the

    response to treatment.  Cats reluctant or unable to eat are

    also often hospitalized.



2.  Give all medication as directed.  Call the doctor if you

    cannot give the medication.



3.  Remove all secretions from the eyes, nose and mouth several

    times each day with a moistened cloth or facial tissue.



4.  Diet:  Follow the instructions checked.



    ____Feed the normal diet.



    ____A special diet is required.  Feed as follows:





5.  Water:  Encourage your cat to drink water.  Provide clean,

    fresh water at all times.



6.  Exercise:  Follow the instructions checked.



    ____No activity restriction is necessary.



    ____Keep your cat indoors and isolated from other cats for

    _____ days.



    ____Keep your cat as quiet as possible until fully recovered.

    Limit handling and do not encourage active play.



       Notify the Doctor if Any of the Following Occur:



    * Your cat's signs worsen or new signs occur.



    * Your cat has trouble breathing or refuses to eat.



    * Your cat seems depressed or loses weight.