Cat-Associated Bartonella Disease: Understanding the Zo

The feline Bartonella disease, also known as feline infectious anemia, is caused by the proliferation of microorganisms in the blood. Cats can contract this disease through scratches, bites, and other similar situations. Cats between 1 to 3 years of age are particularly susceptible. Let's delve deeper into the feline Bartonella disease.

Part 1: Characteristics of Feline Bartonella Disease

Any age of domestic and wild cats can be affected by feline Bartonella disease, but those that are frequently outdoors or unneutered male cats, who are more prone to fighting, have a higher risk of infection. The disease is primarily transmitted through blood, with bloodsucking insects acting as vectors. Cats can contract the disease through bites or scratches from other infected cats, or by being bitten by fleas or ticks. It can also be passed from mother cats to kittens.

The causative agent of feline Bartonella disease primarily resides in the red blood cells of infected cats, severely damaging them. Its mechanism of action includes increasing the fragility of red blood cells, leading to a shorter lifespan in cats; altering the antigens on the surface of red blood cells or exposing them, causing the body to fail to recognize itself, and ultimately leading to the production of antired blood cell antibodies, resulting in hemolytic anemia.

Part 2: Symptoms of Feline Bartonella Disease

Feline Bartonella disease presents with acute and chronic symptoms. Acute symptoms commonly include a fever of 40 to 41 degrees Celsius, loss of appetite, depression, weight loss, rapid breathing, and an increased heart rate. Some cats may also exhibit symptoms of macrocytic hemolytic anemia, such as jaundice, pale mucous membranes, and yellowing. Chronic symptoms are primarily characterized by a lack of energy, weight loss, anemia, and a normal or slightly low body temperature.

Part 3: Diagnostic Methods for Feline Bartonella Disease

The most common method for diagnosing feline Bartonella disease is microscopic examination, where spherical, rodshaped, or ringshaped alkaline substances can be seen on red blood cells. However, it is important to note that after using EDTA anticoagulant, the pathogen may detach from red blood cells, leading to incorrect testing. Therefore, the blood used for making slides should not be anticoagulated. Additionally, microscopic examination is generally only effective during the acute phase of the disease. Currently, the most effective diagnostic method for feline Bartonella disease is polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing.

Part 4: Treatment for Feline Bartonella Disease

In cases where the disease is severe and the cat is severely anemic, it is crucial to provide supportive therapy promptly, including transfusions of healthy cat blood and oxygen supply. The transfusion volume is usually 30 to 80 ml, with transfusions every 2 to 3 days. Effective drugs for treating feline Bartonella disease include doxycycline, tetracycline, enrofloxacin, etc., while penicillin and amoxicillin are less effective. Cats can also be given corticosteroids to help repair tissue damage. However, it is important to note that treatment cannot completely kill the pathogen, and infected cats will carry the pathogen for life, potentially relapsing under stress or other diseases.

To prevent cats from contracting this disease, it is best for owners to regularly clean and disinfect their cats' living environments, maintain cleanliness, eliminate bloodsucking insects, and prevent cats from being scratched or bitten.

This concludes our introduction to feline Bartonella disease. We hope all cat owners take the necessary precautions to prevent their pets from falling ill.