Pediatric feline upper respiratory disease

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Infectious Diseases
• Feline Health

Background:

• Infectious feline upper respiratory tract disease (URTD) is a significant cause of illness and death in kittens.
• Coinfections with multiple pathogens are frequent in crowded settings, worsening disease severity.
• Key viral culprits include feline herpesvirus-1 and feline calicivirus, while bacterial agents encompass Bordetella bronchiseptica, Chlamydia felis, and Mycoplasma species.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the primary causes of URTD in kittens.
• To provide an updated overview of current treatment and prevention strategies for feline URTD.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of prevalent pathogens causing URTD in kittens.
• Synthesis of information on clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management.
• Analysis of current vaccination and biosecurity protocols.

Main Results:

• Feline herpesvirus-1 and feline calicivirus are the most common viral causes.
• Bacterial pathogens like Bordetella bronchiseptica, Chlamydia felis, and Mycoplasma spp. are primary contributors.
• Streptococcus species can act as primary pathogens in specific environments like shelters.

Conclusions:

• Effective management of feline URTD requires understanding the diverse range of causative agents.
• Integrated treatment and prevention strategies are crucial for reducing morbidity and mortality in kitten populations.
• Ongoing research and updated protocols are essential for combating this prevalent disease.