What symptoms does Bordetella cause in cats?

Comprehensive answer, prevention tips, related terms, and key take-aways.

Cats typically develop upper-respiratory signs:

• Frequent sneezing with watery nasal discharge
• Conjunctivitis and ocular discharge (“sticky eyes”)
• Coughing or dyspnoea in severe cases
• Pneumonia in kittens or immunosuppressed adults

Coinfections with calicivirus or herpesvirus are common in shelter settings.

Key Take-Aways

  • Sneezing and runny eyes predominate.
  • Kittens risk pneumonia—seek vet care early.
  • Shelter environments need strict biosecurity.