Bacterial Infection (Campylobacteriosis) in Cats

Campylobacter is a bacteria that is present in the feces of many humans and animals, including cats. It usually does no harm. Uncommonly, the bacteria multiplies too rapidly for the body to respond properly, and cats become sick with campylobacteriosis.

Kittens under 6 months old and elderly cats are particularly susceptible. Cats with immune diseases such as FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus) or FeLV (Feline Leukemia Virus) also have a higher risk.

Cats who have been in very close contact with other cats (breeding facilities, catteries, shelters, feral cat colonies), particularly if hygiene measures are poor, are at greater risk. Additionally, cats who eat raw meat or cats who are in contact with the feces of other animals that are carrying the Campylobacter bacteria are at risk.

In some severe cases, Campylobacter leaves the gastrointestinal tract and infects other parts of the body.

Campylobacteriosis is an infection of the Campylobacter bacteria. This group of bacteria tend to live in the gastrointestinal tracts of many animals, including humans. Typically, they do no harm. In cases where they over-reproduce, they can cause damage to the intestinal tract, causing diarrhea.

Transmission usually occurs by ingesting raw meat such as poultry or other fowl, or through contact with feces or other material/surfaces that have been contaminated with the bacteria. Drinking contaminated water can also result in infection.

The main symptom of campylobacteriosis is diarrhea. The diarrhea can be watery, or may contain mucus. In some cases, the diarrhea may be associated with straining to defecate.

In most cases, infection with the Campylobacter bacteria comes and goes without notice.

In cases where the symptoms of campylobacteriosis develop in healthy cats that are older than 6 months and not elderly, the condition usually runs its course without veterinary intervention. If the diarrhea is severe, if other symptoms such as vomiting, fever, or blood in the stool develop, or if the diarrhea continues for longer than a week, veterinary attention is required.

Diagnostic tools include:

• Physical examination
• Bloodwork
• Specialized testing to detect Campylobacter DNA
• Fecal examination
• Fecal culture

Treatment, if required, is antibiotics. In young kittens, hospitalization may be required due to the severity of disease.

Supportive care measures may include:

• IV fluids
• Restricting food
• Plasma transfusion
• Medications to bind intestinal toxins

It is recommended that infected cats be kept separate from other pets in the household.

Humans require thorough hand washing after handling infected cats or their feces.

Regular laundering of bedding and other washable items that have been in close contact with infected cats and disinfection of any surface that comes in contact with the feces of infected animals is necessary.

Campylobacteriosis usually runs its course without intervention. The prognosis for healthy cats is excellent. The prognosis for very young, very old, or ill cats is good with appropriate and prompt treatment.

Prevention requires avoiding contact with contaminated materials, such as animal feces, and avoiding ingestion of contaminated water or raw meat. Cats kept indoors are less likely to be infected. Good hygiene practices also help reduce the risk of infection.

Infection with Campylobacter bacteria is common in cats. Illness due to campylobacteriosis is uncommon.

• Resolves on its own
• Antibiotics