CHLAMYDIA VACCINE: FELINE PNEUMONITIS Chlamydia Psittaci is a microscopic bacteria like organism that lives in the tissues of the eye called the conjunctiva. Chlamydial infection causes a syndrome called Pneumonitis and usually affects the respiratory system and/or the eyes. The most common sign is runny eyes due to conjunctivitis (X Ref Pg ). However, unlike the conjunctivitis caused by Feline Herpes Virus Type I (part of “Cat Flu”) these infections usually begin in just one eye then spreads to involve both eyes.
Chlamydia can also cause mild to severe respiratory disease with signs ranging from:
· Sneezing and a runny nose to
· Fever
· Pneumonia, and
· Diarrhea.
The runny eyes (conjunctivitis) respond well to topical eye ointments containing the antibiotic Tetracycline. Other medication may or may not be necessary depending on the severity of infection.NOTE: Chlamydial infections can be spread to people so be sure to wash your hands well after treating your cat. Humans generally develop a mild form of the disease called “Chlamydiosis”.
A vaccine for Chlamydia is available and may be given in combination with the Cat Flu (FVRCP) Vaccine. The vaccine will not provide complete protection but will decrease the severity of infection.
