Condition6 connections · 2 sources
Pneumonia
Infection and inflammation in deep lung tissue from bacterial, viral, fungal, or parasitic causes.
Key Facts
- Bacterial component present in most cases regardless of original cause
- Aspiration pneumonia: from inhaled vomit/regurgitated food (megaesophagus risk)
- Coughing is hallmark but many cats with pneumonia hardly cough at all
- IV fluids essential to keep respiratory secretions moist for coughing up
- Nebulization delivers antibiotics directly to lung tissue
- Coupage (chest tapping) mobilizes respiratory secretions
- Several weeks needed for full recovery; weekly recheck radiographs