Recognizable Cat Fungal Infections: A Survey of 10 Types to Familiarize Yourself With
Feline fungal infections, a common, yet not extremely prevalent issue, are caused by fungi- those spore-producing, parasitic organisms dwelling primarily in soil. These critters can infect kitties via inhalation, ingestion, or by entering the skin through wounds or scratches.
Skin fungal infections such as ringworm are quite common, but systemic ones impacting respiratory systems and organs happen in only 7 out of every 10,000 cats [1]. Here are the main ways cats come down with these infections:
Breathing it in
Felines naturally explore using their noses and sense of smell, making them prone to inhaling and breathing in fungus while sniffing around in dirt, hunting, or rolling on the ground.
Eating it
Our feline friends might grab a bite of fungus during hunts or by noshing on soil-contaminated prey. They can also accidentally consume fungal spores while grooming it off their fur or a fellow feline's coat.
Wounds
Fungal skin infections are the most common, happening when fungal spores enter the body through a skin wound or cut. To avoid skin infections, ensure you keep all wounds clean and bandaged.
Indoor felines aren't completely immune, as fungal spores can linger in the home for years, finding their way in through humans, objects, or other four-legged companions.
Younger, older, or immunocompromised cats are more susceptible to fungal infections due to weakened immune systems. Conditions like diabetes, Cushing's disease, hyperthyroidism, and FIV can increase the risk of infection. Certain medications, including antibiotics or steroids, can also weaken the immune system, making cats more prone to fungal infections.
Symptoms of feline fungal infections can vary, depending on the type of fungus, route of infection, and whether the infection can spread throughout the body. Common symptoms may include fur loss, coughing, anorexia (loss of appetite), itching, skin rashes, difficulty breathing, vomiting, discomfort, and diarrhea.
If you suspect your cat is battling a fungal infection, consult your vet for a proper diagnosis. Your vet can help devise an effective treatment plan, which may include topical creams, baths, medicated wipes, or oral antifungal medication. Persistent infection sites, such as the nasal passages or internal organs, can make treatment challenging or lengthy.
While some fungi can be passed between cats and humans, most can't. Practice good hygiene while treating your cat to prevent the spread of infection to yourself or others. Keep a close eye on your cat's health, monitor for any new behaviors or symptoms, and consult your vet if you have concerns.
References:
- "Infectious Diseases." The Cat (2012): 1016-1089. doi:10.1016/B978-1-4377-0660-4.00033-8
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Systemic fungal infections in cats are relatively uncommon compared to localized infections like dermatophytosis. However, they can be serious and require prompt treatment. The prevalence of systemic fungal infections in cats is not as well-documented as other conditions like dermatophytosis, but they are generally considered rare.
The most common types of systemic fungal infections in cats include aspergillosis, cryptococcosis, histoplasmosis, and candidiasis. These infections can affect various parts of the body, including the respiratory system, nervous system, skin, and internal organs.
Diagnosis of systemic fungal infections in cats involves a combination of clinical examination, laboratory tests (such as blood cultures, PCR, and histopathology), and imaging studies. Treatment typically involves systemic antifungal medications and supportive care to manage symptoms and prevent complications.
Prevention strategies include maintaining good hygiene, avoiding exposure to contaminated environments, and ensuring the cat's immune system is healthy. Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial for early detection and management of fungal infections.
Cats might encounter systemic fungal infections through breathing in fungal spores from contaminated environments, similar to the way they might inhale fungi while sniffing around in dirt or rolling on the ground. Additionally, the importance of mental health cannot be overlooked in the overall health and wellness of cats, as conditions like diabetes, Cushing's disease, hyperthyroidism, and FIV can increase the risk of fungal infections due to weakened immune systems.
Skin-care routines and practices for mental health can indirectly help reduce the risk of fungal infections in cats. Ensuring all wounds and cuts are clean and properly bandaged, maintaining clean living environments to reduce exposure to fungal spores, and monitoring indoor cats for new behaviors or symptoms that may suggest a fungal infection will aid in maintaining the health of your feline companion.
