Topic of the Month

Just because you have an “indoor cat” doesn’t mean that he or she is in the clear. FIV/FeLV is an airborne virus that can be transmitted from cat to cat via an open window or any entryway to the outdoors. It can also be transmitted through bodily fluids, such as during a fight or nursing. If caught early enough, it can be manageable.

 

“FIV” is the feline form of HIV. “FeLV” is the feline leukemia virus. These viruses weaken a cat’s immune system and are found in every region of the United States. They are highly contagious, and can be fatal. In some cats, signs don’t appear for weeks, months, or even years after they are infected - that’s why testing your kitty is so important. Some possible signs are:

 

Vomiting/Diarrhea

Weight loss

Weakness

Behavioral changes

Bleeding or pale gums/mouth sores

Dull or matted coat

 

FIV and FeLV are leading causes of illness and death and cats. There is a vaccine called the Purevax Recombinant Leukemia Vaccine, which is highly effective against the Feline Leukemia virus.

 

Infectious Tracheobronchitis (ITB), the medical term for canine cough, can be caused by various viruses and bacteria acting alone or in combination. These include:

 

All dogs are at risk.

 

Infection consists of bacteria that cover the hair-like Cilia that line the upper respiratory tract. Cilia function by clearing bacteria and debris from the airways. 

Bordetella is an airborne virus that can be contracted by boarding, grooming, visits to dog parks, other dog-to-dog contact, or even daily walks.   Signs usually occur within 3-4 days of exposure. It can last for weeks if left untreated. Signs include:

 

Persistent hacking

Honking

Gagging

Spasmodic cough

Watery nasal discharge

 

The good news is that ITB is a very preventable disease, thanks to the availability of effective vaccines. Incorporating Bordetella into your pet’s annual vaccination program can help protect your dog against the constant threat of exposure. Though available by injection, the most common point of entry for the Bordetella vaccine is intranasally. The vaccine can be given as early as three weeks of age. If your dog is diagnosed with Bordetella, your veterinarian may recommend antibiotic therapy. 

 

Until recently, ITB was not considered to be a human health risk. Recently, however, research indicates that Bordetella bronchiseptica may cause disease in some humans, primarily those with compromised immune systems.