sporotrichosis in cats is a pathology caused by fungi that are transmitted, generally, through a wound in the skin, which which facilitates its entry into the body. It is common in hot climates and can be transmitted to other species, such as dogs (although it is rare) and to humans.
It is a very serious disease, so it will be essential to take certain care and precautions into account. For this reason, on our site we will talk in detail about sporotrichosis in cats, its causes, symptoms and treatmentRead on to find out.
What is sporotrichosis?
Sporotrichosis is a fungal disease and zoonotic, it is In other words, it can be transmitted to humans and vice versa. It is caused by the fungus Sporothrix schenkii. There are cases around the world, but Brazil is where the largest number of cases of this disease have been reported. This fungus thrives especially well in hot, humid climates, making it more common in tropical climates
The inoculation of the fungus, that is, the entry of the fungus into the body of the individual, occurs through existing wounds or wounds caused by contaminated material, such as scratches or bites of infected animals. Sporotrichosis in cats is quite common and in these animals, the fungus is present on the nails or on the head (especially in the nose and mouth) and enters in the body. Then it is likely that the animal can transmit this disease to other cats, dogs or humans, either due to a scratch or direct contact with the lesion.
A greater number of sporotrichosis has also been observed in non-neutered adult males with access to the outside, since they can find this fungus in soil and in gardens, as well as coming into contact with infected felines. The best way to prevent the appearance of this fungus is to always keep the places properly clean, especially the cat's litter box.
Causes of sporotrichosis in cats
As we have mentioned before, sporotrichosis in cats or fungus Sporothrix schenckii takes advantage of minor injuries or wounds to enter the animal's body. Thus, we can consider that there are three types of sporotrichosis:
- Cutaneous: we observe individual nodules on the animal's skin.
- Cutaneous-lymphatic: when the infection progresses and, beyond affecting the skin, it also affects the animal's lymphatic system.
- Disseminated: When the disease is so severe that the whole body is affected.
Symptoms of sporotrichosis in cats
Unlike other skin conditions, the lesions caused by sporotrichosis are usually not itchy In addition to the more common symptoms, that we will mention below, animals can suffer from a considerable lack of appetite and, consequently, weight. In addition, when the disease spreads, other clinical signs may be present, depending on the affected systems. From respiratory, locomotor and even gastrointestinal problems.
The symptoms of sporotrichosis in cats are:
- Firm nodules
- Alopecia areas
- Ulcers on the trunk, head and ears
But also, if you observe any suspicious wound on the animal's skin, with no apparent cause and with a characteristic location or appearance, you should wear the feline to the vet, handling it with gloves and following the doctor's recommendations at all times. Below we show a very characteristic photo of this disease so that you know how to better recognize the clinical signs:
Diagnosis of Sporotrichosis in Cats
To confirm that the animal suffers from sporotrichosis, diagnostic tests are required, always carried out by a qualified veterinarian. Let us remember that this disease can easily be confused with other pathologies, such as leishmaniosis in cats or felineherpesvirus
The methods for a correct diagnosis are:
- Cytology
- Impression
- Skin scraping
Sometimes the vet will also perform a fungal culture and a biopsy Don't be surprised if the specialist also requiresother tests , since complementary tests are extremely important to rule out possible differential diagnoses and, without a correct diagnosis, the chances of treatment being ineffective are much higher.
Treatment of sporotrichosis in cats
The treatment of choice for this problem is sodium iodide and potassium.
However, in the case of cats, the veterinarian should take special care because there is an increased risk of iodism as a side effect of this treatment, and the cat may manifest:
- Fever
- Anorexy
- Dry skin
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
Other drugs may be used to aid wound healing, such as imidazoles and triazoles The Itraconazole for cats is one of the most used drugs in this regard. However, it is important to note that it can also have side effects such as:
- Anorexy
- Nausea
- Weightloss
If your cat has any side effects from the medication, you should immediately contact the veterinarian who is following the case. In addition, it is important to note that the treatment of sporotrichosis in cats can require from a few weeks to several months This disease is very difficult to treat and requires a lot of dedication on the part of the patient. tutors, because only cooperation and persistence will guarantee the success of the treatment.
Is there a cure for sporotrichosis in cats?
Sporotrichosis in cats does have a cure To do this, you should take your feline to the veterinary clinic as soon as you detect some of the symptoms that we have mentioned above. The sooner treatment is started, the better the prognosis.
Prognosis of sporotrichosis in cats
The prognosis for this disease is good if it is identified early and the correct treatment is carried out. Relapses may occur, but are generally associated with misuse of medications. For this reason, once again, remember that you should never self-medicate your cat without the supervision of the veterinarian, since this act can seriously worsen the he alth of your animal in the future.
Caring for a cat with sporotrichosis
It is impossible to eliminate all existing fungi, since they naturally inhabit different types of materials and environments, however, the prophylaxis is very important. A regular disinfection and hygiene of animal spaces can not only prevent relapses, but also prevent contamination of other household animals or humans themselves.
We will clean all fabrics and utensils, such as beds, blankets, feeders and waterers. We will do it regularly, during treatment and at the end of it. Let's remember the importance of always wearing gloves while handling the infected pet and while administering medication.
Also We will separate the cat from the other animals in the home, we will prevent it from going outside and we will strictly follow the treatment prescribed by the veterinarian to avoid relapses or contagion to other individuals. These are the main precautions that we must take into account if our feline suffers from feline sporotrichosis or any other fungal disease such as fungus in cats
