Campylobacteriosis in Cats

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Campylobacteriosis in Cats

By: Dr. Arnold Plotnick

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Section: Overview

Campylobacteriosis is a common cause of enteritis (intestinal inflammation) in man and several animal species, including dogs and cats. The disorder is caused by a bacterium, Campylobacter jejuni.

The conditions associated with an increased risk of developing campylobacteriosis are:

Animals with diarrhea

Young animals

Crowded housing conditions

Poor sanitation

Stressful conditions, such as pregnancy, surgery, or other illness

Concurrent infection with other intestinal pathogens such as parvovirus, Salmonella, Giardia or parasites

Campylobacteriosis is a leading cause of intestinal disease in people. Puppies and kittens can serve as a source of infection for humans. In many cases, dogs and cats are carriers of the organism, but show no clinical signs. When clinical signs are present in dogs and cats, it is usually in animals younger than six months of age.

What to Watch For

Diarrhea

Partial loss of appetite

Occasional vomiting

Diagnosis

Microscopic examination of feces

Culture

Serology

Treatment

Antibiotics

Supportive care

Home Care and Prevention

There is no home care for campylobacteriosis. If your pet develops severe diarrhea, contact your veterinarian.

Avoid conditions that have been associated with spread of the disease. Isolate animals with diarrhea and improve sanitation in kennels and boarding facilities. Avoid stress and practice good hygiene, such as hand-washing after coming into contact with animals that have diarrhea.

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