Search Results
3 results for “cryptococcus”
What to Do If Your Cat Has Cryptococcosis
Cryptococcosis is an environmental fungus found in soil and air, and cats often catch it by inhaling spores that travel from the lungs to the rest of the body, or through wounded skin and the mouth. Pigeons are the most important carrier, so the fungus concentrates wherever birds roost, in attics, and among decaying leaves. Signs range from skin nodules and nasal discharge to nervous-system and eye problems. Diagnosis relies on microscopy, fungal culture, X-rays, and blood tests, and oral antifungals such as ketoconazole, itraconazole, and fluconazole are the main treatment. Starting therapy early and keeping it consistent gives the best chance of recovery.
Cat Upper Respiratory Infection: Symptoms and Treatment
A cat upper respiratory infection is inflammation of the mucous membranes of the upper airways. Affected cats typically cough, sneeze, and have a runny nose, sometimes with yellow nasal discharge, and a sudden drop in temperature, poor nutrition, or stress can trigger an outbreak. The usual culprits are viruses such as herpesvirus and calicivirus, bacteria such as Chlamydia, and fungi such as Cryptococcus. This article covers the common pathogens, how viral, bacterial, and fungal infections differ in their signs, what else can mimic these symptoms, and the supportive care and medications veterinarians rely on to treat them, from keeping the eyes and nose clear to antiviral, antibiotic, and antifungal therapy.
Cryptococcosis in Dogs and Cats: Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention
The Cryptococcus genus includes 17 species; only Cryptococcus neoformans and its varieties are pathogenic. C. neoformans almost always invades via the lungs; about 90% of lesions stay in the lungs and 10% disseminate through the blood to other organs.