Fungal infections in cats can cause a wide range of alarming symptoms and put people and animals in danger of infection. Our Lincoln vets explain the causes, symptoms, and treatment for these conditions.
What is fungal infection in cats?
Fungi, also known as funguses, are parasitic organisms that produce spores and feed on hosts to obtain nourishment. While many species of fungi exist in the environment, only some can cause infections.
Most fungi come from the soil, and cats can acquire these infections by ingesting or inhaling them or through the skin (for example, through a wound or cut).
Cats can be at increased risk of fungal infections if exposed to animals with an existing infection or come into contact with their feces.
Some fungal infections can cause disease in otherwise healthy animals, while others target hosts with compromised immune systems or weak or sick hosts. Cats with long-term antibiotic drugs or immunosuppressive agents appear more susceptible to fungal infections.
Common Fungal Infections in Cats
While cats can be affected by various fungi in the environment, certain infections are more common. Here are some of the most frequently encountered fungal infections in cats:
- Aspergillosis
- Candidiasis
- Coccidioidomycosis
- Cryptococcosis
- Histoplasmosis
- Mycetomas
- North American Blastomycosis
- Rhinosporidiosis
- Sporotrichosis
- Phaeohyphomycosis
These infections may infect the entire body or be focused on one area. Fungal skin infections in cats are common, while general fungal infections are rare.
Symptoms of Fungal Infection in Cats
The type of infection often determines the symptoms of fungal infection in cats. Here are common symptoms seen in cats with these types of infections:
- Bloody discharge from the nose
- Sneezing
- Swelling under the bridge of the nose
- Circling
- Cough
- Cysts underneath the skin
- Anemia
- Blindness
- Diarrhea
- Depression
- Difficulty breathing
- Eye problems
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
- Lung infections
- Bladder infections
- Paralysis
- Intolerance to physical activity
- Weight loss
- Skin lesions
- Seizures
Diagnosis & Treatment of Fungal Infections in Cats
Some fungal infections are not always easy to diagnose, as they are rare. When you visit your vet, it’s helpful to know your cat’s medical history and when the symptoms of infection start to appear. The vet will perform a complete physical exam and take blood for laboratory tests.
The dermatologist vets at Critter Creek Veterinary Hospital have experience diagnosing and treating internal conditions. We make diagnoses and treatment recommendations based on a comprehensive assessment of your pet’s health issues.
A CBC, complete blood count, urinalysis, and chemical blood profile will help reveal the cause of your cat’s symptoms. Sometimes, the vet may take a tissue sample to assist in diagnosis.
Usually, your cat will be anesthetized for this, and a tissue sample will be taken during surgery. The sample will then be analyzed in our in-house lab.
As for treatment, depending on the type of fungi causing the issue, your vet may take different measures, such as hospitalization (if the fungus is transmittable to humans), to reduce the risk of infection to you and your family.
If you keep your cat at home, you may receive instructions on preventing infections, including wearing gloves and a mask while handling it and changing its litter.
Topical ointments can often be used to treat fungal skin infections in cats, and the vet may be able to remove skin lesions. Any secondary infections will be addressed with IV fluids and/or medications if necessary. It may take several weeks of treatment before you see improvement.
Recovery of Fungal Infection in Cats
The type of fungal infection will determine your cat’s prognosis. While some can be cleared up with medication, others can have long-term health effects or even cause severe neurological symptoms (in the case of serious infections such as North American Blastomycosis).
Attend all follow-up appointments so your veterinarian can assess your cat’s recovery and ensure no relapses have occurred. If necessary, medication may change. Report any changes in your cat’s behavior or appearance immediately.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.