Pneumonia in cats

Pneumonia in cats can range from mild to severe. If compromising the ability to breathe it can become an emergency. Many cases of pneumonia require immediate veterinary intervention.

Pneumonia is the inflammation of the lungs and airways, resulting in fluid buildup and difficulty breathing. Depending on its origin and severity, if not treated soon enough, it can be life-threatening.

Overview

What is pneumonia in cats?

Pneumonia is the inflammation of the lungs and airways in response to a foreign substance or an infectious organism entering the lungs.

There are several primary causes of pneumonia, including:

Viruses
Immune-mediated conditions alter the body’s natural defence mechanisms resulting in it being more vulnerable to infectious diseases
Inhalation of chemicals or smoke
Aspiration of mouth or stomach contents, called aspiration pneumonia: vomit, food, chemicals, fluids, or foreign materials
Bacteria
Fungus
Parasites

Symptoms

What are the symptoms of pneumonia in cats?

You might notice some or all of the following signs:

White, yellow, or green nasal discharge
Coughing
Hacking
Wheezing
Fast breathing rate
Shallow or labored breathing
Open mouth breathing
Lack of appetite
Lethargy
Grooming less
Change in behaviour, being quieter than usual, or hiding

Risk

Are some cats at higher risk of pneumonia than others?

Cats of any age, breed or sex can develop pneumonia, but some factors may increase the risk:

Age: Kittens and older cats are more likely than adults to have bacterial and viral pneumonia due to a primary infection
FIV or FeLV: cats who have immuno-compromising illnesses can be more likely to develop pneumonia secondarily to them
Not being vaccinated: cats who are not vaccinated can be more exposed to immunocompromising illnesses and secondary infections
Not being wormed: parasites can cause inflammation of the lungs in cats who are not regularly treated with preventative wormers.

Diagnosis

How is pneumonia in cats diagnosed?

Vets usually diagnose pneumonia based on:

History: your version of what has been happening with your cat
Your cat’s symptoms
Hands-on examination
Chest x-rays
Blood tests

On some occasions, vets may need to do further testing, such as:

Tracheal or a bronchoalveolar wash to collect a sample of cells in the trachea or lungs under anaesthesia.
Bacterial culture and sensitivity testing. The fluid sample is cultured to look for any bacteria growth, identify the type and determine which antibiotics are more effective.

Vet treatment

What’s the treatment for pneumonia in cats?

Treatment depends on the type of pneumonia and underlying illnesses.

The severity of the disease will also determine the intensity of treatment.

Mild cases of pneumonia can be managed without hospitalisation, using just medication and home care.
Moderate to severe cases require hospitalisation with 24/7 care and special equipment.

Treatment includes some of the following:

Oral or injectable antibiotics, usually for several weeks.
Parasite or antifungal treatment when necessary.
Oxygen supplementation via an oxygen mask or special cage.
Nebulisation and coupage: Steam or inhaled medication can help release lung secretions before a caregiver gently claps on the sides of the cat’s chest to help them cough out the fluid.
Bronchodilators may be used to relax and open the airways.
Fluid therapy: hydration through the vein using a drip.

Home treatment

How to look after a cat diagnosed with pneumonia

Following your vet’s treatment recommendations:

Keep them rested and indoors.
Monitor their appetite.
Monitor their breathing rate.
Perform nebulisation and coupage once or twice a day, as recommended by your vet.
- Place them in the bathroom while you have a shower so they can breathe the steam
- Gently clap on both sides of their chest to help release secretions.

Prevention

Tips on how to prevent pneumonia in cats

Worm your cat regularly as recommended by your vet
Maintain good air quality in your cat’s living spaces, and avoid dusty or mouldy environments
Keep your cat and their food and water bowls separated from your other pets to prevent the spread of infectious pneumonia
Take your cat to a vet if they have been coughing
Be vigilant for signs of pneumonia if your cat has an underlying condition that increases their risk

When to worry