🐾 Vet’s Guide to Feline Leptospirosis: Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention in 2025 🐾

By Dr Duncan Houston BVSc

Leptospirosis is a rare but serious bacterial infection in cats, caused by Leptospira species. This guide provides comprehensive information on the symptoms, treatment, and prevention of feline leptospirosis, tailored for Australian cat owners in 2025.

🔬 What is Leptospirosis?

Leptospirosis is an infectious disease caused by spiral-shaped bacteria of the genus Leptospira. These bacteria can infect various animals, including cats, and can be transmitted to humans (zoonotic). The infection primarily affects the kidneys and liver, but can also impact other organs.

🦠 Causes and Transmission

Cats can become infected with leptospirosis through:

• 🐾 Direct contact with urine from infected animals
• 🐾 Ingestion of contaminated water or food
• 🐾 Exposure to contaminated soil or bedding
• 🐾 Hunting and consuming infected rodents

Outdoor cats and those with access to stagnant water or areas with high rodent populations are at increased risk.

🐱 Symptoms in Cats

Symptoms of leptospirosis in cats can vary and may include:

• 🐾 Fever
• 🐾 Lethargy
• 🐾 Loss of appetite
• 🐾 Vomiting and diarrhea
• 🐾 Increased thirst and urination
• 🐾 Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
• 🐾 Muscle pain or stiffness
• 🐾 Difficulty breathing

Some cats may carry the bacteria without showing any symptoms, posing a risk of transmission to other animals and humans.

🩺 Diagnosis

Diagnosis involves a combination of clinical signs and laboratory tests:

• 🐾 Blood tests to assess kidney and liver function
• 🐾 Urinalysis to detect the presence of bacteria
• 🐾 PCR testing to identify Leptospira DNA
• 🐾 Microscopic agglutination test (MAT) to detect antibodies

💊 Treatment Options

Treatment typically includes:

• 🐾 Antibiotics such as doxycycline or penicillin derivatives
• 🐾 Supportive care including fluid therapy to prevent dehydration
• 🐾 Nutritional support and appetite stimulants
• 🐾 Pain management and anti-nausea medications
• 🐾 Hospitalization in severe cases for close monitoring

It's crucial to follow the veterinarian's instructions and complete the full course of antibiotics to prevent recurrence.

🛡️ Prevention Strategies

Preventive measures include:

• 🐾 Keeping cats indoors to reduce exposure to infected animals and environments
• 🐾 Controlling rodent populations in and around the home
• 🐾 Providing clean, uncontaminated food and water
• 🐾 Practicing good hygiene, such as washing hands after handling cats or cleaning litter boxes

Currently, there is no widely available vaccine for leptospirosis in cats.

📍 Regional Considerations in Australia

In Australia, leptospirosis is more commonly reported in dogs, with few documented cases in cats. However, cat owners should still be vigilant, especially in areas prone to flooding or with high rodent populations.

📱 Stay Informed with Ask A Vet

For personalized advice and support, consider downloading the Ask A Vet app. Our platform connects you with licensed veterinarians for real-time consultations, helping you keep your feline friend healthy and happy.

🐾 Download the Ask A Vet app today and ensure your cat's well-being is always a tap away! 📲