What should you know about feline pneumonia?

Pneumonia affects the air sacs and surrounding lung tissue, making it harder for oxygen to move into the bloodstream. Causes may include bacteria, viruses, inhaled material, parasites, or other illness. Affected cats may have cough, fever, reduced appetite, tiredness, chills, nasal discharge, or faster and more effortful breathing. A veterinarian may listen to the chest and recommend imaging or laboratory tests to clarify the cause. Pneumonia can worsen quickly, particularly when breathing is already difficult.

Keep the cat warm, quiet, and separated from other animals if the veterinarian suspects a contagious infection. Offer water and familiar food without forcing either. Give prescribed medicines for the full plan and do not use leftover antibiotics or human cough remedies. Treatment may include medicines directed at infection, oxygen, fluids, nutrition, or other supportive care. Follow-up is needed if appetite, energy, or breathing does not steadily improve.

Go to an emergency veterinary service for open-mouth breathing, severe effort, blue or grey gums, collapse, extreme weakness, or an inability to stay upright. Prompt care is also needed when a cat refuses fluids, becomes unusually sleepy, or develops worsening fever and cough. Breathing distress is urgent regardless of whether the illness began after a cold, choking episode, or contact with another animal.

Ask what cause is suspected, whether isolation is needed, and how breathing will be monitored. Ask which medicines are prescribed, how to support eating and drinking, what changes should prompt recheck, and whether other pets need assessment or preventive measures.