Bordetella bronchiseptica est une bactérie qui contribue aux maladies respiratoires félines, en particulier dans les populations surpeuplées ou stressées comme les refuges et les élevages. Elle peut provoquer des signes allant de légers troubles respiratoires hauts à une bronchopneumonie, la plus grave chez les jeunes chatons. Le même organisme est responsable de la toux du chenil chez le chien et peut rarement affecter des personnes immunodéprimées.
Bordetella bronchiseptica is a respiratory pathogen that can act alone or alongside viruses in feline respiratory disease, with severity ranging from mild to life-threatening pneumonia.
It spreads through respiratory secretions and close contact. Crowding, stress, poor ventilation, and concurrent viral infection increase risk, so shelters and catteries see most cases.
Signs include sneezing, nasal discharge, fever, and coughing. Kittens may develop bronchopneumonia with rapid breathing, lethargy, and sometimes sudden death.
Bacterial culture or PCR from oropharyngeal swabs or airway samples confirms infection; chest imaging assesses pneumonia.
Appropriate antibiotics such as doxycycline, guided where possible by culture, are the mainstay, with supportive care for dehydrated or pneumonic cats.
Reducing crowding and stress and improving ventilation help. An intranasal vaccine is available for higher-risk settings. People with weakened immunity should take hygiene precautions.
This content is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you are worried about your pet, contact your veterinarian.
