Infection with Pasteurella Multocida, Pasteurellosis (Bacterial Infection Caused by Pasteurella Species) in cats
- Occurrence: common
- Location of illness: General/Whole body
Pasteurellosis is a bacterial infection in cats caused by the bacterium Pasteurella multocida, which is often found in the normal oral flora of cats but can cause infections under certain conditions.
BASICS/CAUSES:
Pasteurella multocida is a gram-negative, coccoid rod-shaped bacterium that is part of the normal flora of the upper respiratory tract and digestive tract of many animals, including cats. It is known for its ability to cause opportunistic infections, especially when the host’s immune system is weakened or when injuries occur that facilitate the bacterium’s entry.
The infection often occurs in connection with bite or scratch injuries, as the bacterium is easily transmitted through the saliva of cats. It can cause skin and soft tissue infections and, in more severe cases, lead to systemic infections.
Pasteurella multocida is an opportunistic pathogen, meaning that it is usually harmless but can cause an infection under certain conditions, such as stress or an existing illness. The normal defense barrier of the skin or mucous membranes can be weakened by injuries, which facilitates the bacterium’s entry into the body.
Other factors that increase the risk of infection include a weakened immune system, chronic diseases, or other existing infections that impair the body’s natural defenses. Since cats are social animals that frequently interact and fight, they are particularly susceptible to bite and scratch injuries, which provide a gateway for the bacteria.
The most important facts at a glance
Pasteurella multocida is a bacterium commonly found in the mouths of cats and can cause infections, especially through bite or scratch injuries. The infection can also occur as a secondary consequence of existing wounds or respiratory diseases. Common symptoms include nasal and eye discharge, respiratory distress, abscess formation, reddened conjunctiva, and inflamed ear canals. Diagnosis is based on clinical symptoms, medical history, and laboratory tests, with samples from infected sites being examined in the laboratory. Blood tests and imaging procedures can also aid in diagnosis. Treatment includes the administration of antibiotics such as amoxicillin or clindamycin, as well as cleaning of the infected sites. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary. Supportive measures such as a balanced diet promote recovery. The prognosis depends on the severity of the infection and the timeliness of treatment, with superficial infections usually healing well. For prevention, bite and scratch injuries should be avoided by creating a calm environment and monitoring the socialization of cats. Regular veterinary examinations and good hygiene, including cleaning cat utensils and immediate wound care, are also important to reduce the risk of infection.
Causes
Bite injuries, as the bacterium is found in the mouth of many animals, including cats.
Scratch wounds from infected animals.
Secondary infections in existing wounds or respiratory diseases.
Symptoms
The symptoms of a Pasteurella infection in cats can vary depending on the severity and location of the infection. In the case of a superficial skin infection, which often occurs after a bite or scratch, redness, swelling, pain, and pus formation can be observed. The affected area may also be warm and sensitive.
If the infection penetrates deeper tissues or spreads systemically, more serious signs may occur, such as fever, loss of appetite, and lethargy. In some cases, the infection can affect the respiratory tract, which can lead to respiratory distress, cough, and nasal discharge.
In very rare cases, Pasteurella multocida can lead to a severe systemic infection that can be life-threatening. This systemic pasteurellosis can be characterized by bacteremia (bacteria in the blood), which is a medical emergency. Symptoms may include high fever, shock, and multiple organ failure.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of a Pasteurella infection is based on a combination of clinical symptoms, medical history, and laboratory tests. A veterinarian will first take the cat’s medical history, especially whether there have been any recent bite or scratch injuries.
An accurate diagnosis is supported by microbiological examinations, in which samples are taken from the infected site and examined for the presence of Pasteurella multocida. These samples can be cultured in the laboratory to isolate and identify the bacterium.
In addition, blood tests can be performed to determine the extent of the infection and rule out other possible causes of the symptoms. In severe cases where a systemic infection is suspected, X-rays or ultrasound examinations may be necessary to assess the spread of the infection.
Therapy
Treatment of pasteurellosis in cats usually requires the administration of antibiotics to kill the bacteria. Commonly used antibiotics include amoxicillin, clindamycin, or enrofloxacin, which are selected by the veterinarian based on the sensitivity of the isolated bacterium.
In addition to drug therapy, it is important to keep the affected area clean and remove any existing pus or dead tissue to promote healing. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to drain abscesses or remove infected tissue.
Supporting the cat’s immune system through a balanced diet and, if necessary, nutritional supplements can also contribute to recovery. For systemic infections, more intensive treatment, including intravenous fluid administration and hospitalization, may be necessary.
Prognosis and follow-up care
The prognosis for cats with a Pasteurella infection depends on the severity of the infection and the timeliness of treatment. Superficial skin infections usually heal well with timely and appropriate treatment. Most cats recover completely without long-term consequences.
For deeper or systemic infections, recovery may take longer, and there is a higher risk of complications. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to improve the prognosis and reduce the risk of complications.
If left untreated or inadequately treated, pasteurellosis can lead to serious health problems, including the possibility of sepsis, which can be life-threatening. Therefore, it is important to seek veterinary attention immediately if an infection is suspected.
Prevention
Prevention of infection with Pasteurella multocida in cats begins with minimizing situations in which bite or scratch injuries can occur. This can be achieved by promoting a calm and stress-free environment in which conflicts between cats are avoided. It is important to monitor the socialization and behavior of cats well, especially in multi-cat households.
Regular veterinary check-ups are also crucial to monitor the cat’s general health and identify potential sources of infection early. If possible, cats should be kept indoors to minimize contact with stray animals that may be carriers of the bacterium.
Good hygiene is another important preventive factor. This includes regular cleaning of cat utensils such as food bowls and litter boxes, as well as frequent hand washing after handling cats or their excrement. In the event of injuries, whether from bites or scratches, the wound should be cleaned immediately with soap and water to reduce the risk of infection.
By combining these measures, the risk of Pasteurellosis infection in cats can be significantly reduced, leading to better health and well-being of the animals.