Mary Allen
A granulomatous inflammation in the nictitating membrane of a cat imported from Spain turned out to be a loan-maniasis lesion. A differential diagnosis is to be considered.
Six years after a tomcat from an animal sanctuary in Spain came to his new family in Germany, he developed a granulomatous enlargement of one centimeter in size on the right nictitating membrane. After surgical removal and histopathological examination, the unusual diagnosis was made: leishmaniasis caused by Leishmania infant.
Importance in cats
Unlike the dog, the cat is considered a secondary reservoir for these pathogens. How often leishmaniasis occurs in cats in Germany is difficult to quantify. Because: The disease does not have to be reported or reported in either humans or cats. Sandflies (in Germany these are Phlebotomus perniciosus and hlebotomus mastitis) also transmit the disease via cats. Animals that have been subclinically ill for a long time may facilitate the further spread of the parasites. Diagnosing felids is a major challenge.
Clinical signs
Leishmaniasis is also a systemic disease in cats. As in dogs, the visceral form is rarer and more dangerous. Clinically, cats usually show changes to the skin, mucous membranes, or eyes with associated swelling of the lymph nodes. There is no drug against Leishmania approved for cats. When choosing repellents for prevention, attention must be paid to the high toxicity in cats.
Frequently Asked Question
Can cats get leishmaniasis?
Leishmaniasis can cause chronic damage
In mammals, i.e. both dogs and cats, the number of unreported cases is much higher. The insidious thing about the disease is the poor treatment options. Leishmaniasis can also cause chronic damage in animals and can even lead to death if left untreated.
How is cat disease noticeable?
The course of the disease is usually acute, but with fairly unspecific symptoms. Affected cats exhibit inappetence, anorexia, apathy, and fever, followed by vomiting and diarrhea. Diarrhea can be very serious. The feces may contain digested (melena) or fresh blood.
How much does cat vaccination cost?
A basic immunization costs around 40 to 50 euros per vaccination. For free-roaming cats, including rabies, you pay around 50 to 60 euros. Since a basic immunization includes several vaccinations at intervals of a few weeks, you will come up with a total cost of around 160 to 200 euros for an indoor cat.
Should you vaccinate cats every year?
Cat disease: every one to three years, depending on the preparation. Cat flu: released annually; Indoor cats every two to three years. Rabies: every two to three years, depending on the preparation. Feline leukemia (FeLV) (feline leukemia/feline leukosis): every one to three years.
What if I don’t vaccinate my cat?
With serious infectious diseases, if your cat is not vaccinated, the body cannot produce antibodies as quickly to kill the pathogen. Vaccination serves to build up immune protection.
Should old cats still be vaccinated?
Is it still necessary to vaccinate old cats? Yes, vaccinating old cats makes sense too. A basic immunization against cat flu and cat disease is advisable for every cat – no matter what age. If she is outdoors, rabies should also be considered.
How many vaccinations does a house cat need?
Here you can see a vaccination plan for the basic immunization for your cat: 8 weeks of life: against cat disease and cat flu. 12 weeks of life: against cat epidemic and cat flu, rabies. 16 weeks of life: against cat epidemic and cat flu, rabies.
How long can a cat live?
12 – 18 years
How is feline leukemia manifested?
Affected animals often have extremely pale mucous membranes. The feline leukemia symptoms of tumor formation are initially general apathy, loss of appetite, and emaciation; further depends on the affected organ.
When to put down a cat with feline leukemia?
The Pet vet, who accompanies us, only puts the cats to sleep when the disease breaks out and there is no longer any quality of life.