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Pneumonia associated with Mycoplasma spp in three cats
S F Foster1, V R Barrs, P Martin
1Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, University of Sydney, New South Wales.
Australian Veterinary Journal
|August 13, 1998
Summary
Mycoplasma species can cause lower respiratory tract infections in cats, leading to conditions like bronchopneumonia. Prompt antimicrobial treatment targeting mycoplasmas resulted in complete recovery for affected felines.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Microbiology
Background:
- Mycoplasma species are known opportunistic pathogens in various animal species.
- Feline lower respiratory tract diseases encompass a range of conditions including bronchopneumonia and bronchitis.
Observation:
- Three cats presented with clinical, cytological, and radiographic evidence of lower respiratory tract disease.
- Bronchoalveolar lavage specimens from these cats yielded pure cultures of Mycoplasma species.
- Identified predisposing factors included esophageal hypomotility and exposure to cigarette smoke with periodontal disease in two cases.
Findings:
- Antimicrobial therapy specifically targeting Mycoplasma species led to rapid and complete resolution of respiratory signs in all three cats.
- Mycoplasma species were identified as potential primary pathogens in feline lower respiratory tract infections.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider Mycoplasma as a potential cause of feline airway disease and pneumonia when initiating empirical therapy.
- This finding expands the understanding of Mycoplasma's role in feline respiratory pathology.