Mycoplasma
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Our guide has been authored by qualified veterinarians, but should not be taken as substitute for medical advice or professional veterinary consultation. If your pet displays any unusual symptoms, we strongly advise seeking guidance from a veterinarian
Understanding Mycoplasma in cats
Hemotropic Mycoplasmosis, or Feline Infectious Anemia, is a disease caused by a group of bacteria of the Mycoplasmataceae family, mainly Mycoplasma Haemofelis (commonly known as Haemobartonella felis). These bacteria attach themselves to the cat’s blood cells and may cause an autoimmune reaction that destroys the red blood cells, leading to severe anemia – a condition known as immune mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA).
Daria's story
Daria is a typical “indoor-outdoor cat” who enjoys free-roaming the neighborhood and coming home every evening for food and cuddles. When she didn’t come home for two days, her family was worried and searched for her. She was found in a nearby yard, barely able to respond to their calls. Daria was immediately brought to the clinic, and the vet noticed she was pale and had a high fever. A complete blood count showed severe anemia, and the blood smear showed many little parasites attached to the blood cells. The final diagnosis was hemolytic anemia due to Mycoplasma Haemofelis, and Daria was hospitalized for four days. She received blood transfusions and intense medical treatment. Following her release, her owners continued to treat her with medications at home, and she made a full recovery.
Mycoplasma's Causes: Uncovering Triggers
Mycoplasma is relatively common, but its exact transmission methods are often unclear. Here are some of the key causes:
- Fleas: Fleas are considered the leading carriers, and many cats with mycoplasma have fleas. It’s important to note that their presence can also lead to anemia even without the presence of Mycoplasma bacteria.
- Mother-to-fetus transmission: This occurs via the bloodstream during pregnancy.
- Injuries: A bite or a scratch can transmit the bacteria from one cat to another, hence why outdoor cats can be more at risk.
- Iatrogenic infections: These are caused by medical treatment or products, like infected blood transfusions or contaminated needles.
Recognizing Mycoplasma: Signs and Symptoms
- Behavioral changes: Lethargy, weakness, depression,loss of appetite, and an energetic cat becoming apathetic.
- High fever: The cat may feel warm to the touch, especially around their ears.
- Pale mucous membranes: The eye or gums may seem pale instead of their usual pink hue. In some cases, they will be yellowish.
- Abscesses: Swellings under the skin, sometimes with pus, near the jaw, neck, legs, or back.
- Enlarged lymph nodes: Swelling under the jaw and around the shoulders or back legs.
Some cats may not display any symptoms, while others may experience severe clinical signs.
Mycoplasma Diagnosis: How it's Identified
This common disease can be challenging to diagnose.
- Initial suspicion of mycoplasma infection arises during the physical examination of a cat exhibiting a high fever and pale gums. Other indicators include the presence of fleas, abscesses, and an enlarged spleen or lymph nodes.
- A complete blood count will show signs of anemia.
- Biochemical tests may show a rise in bilirubin, a byproduct of blood cell breakdown, which can lead to yellowing mucous membranes, eyes, and skin.
- The parasite is sometimes visible in blood smears but is not always detectable.
- PCR is considered a more reliable diagnostic method for detecting mycoplasma. However, carrier cats will also test positive, so the results should be interpreted in the context of clinical symptoms.
- Additional tests are performed to rule out diseases that weaken the immune system, such as FeLV, FIV, and various types of cancer.
Treating Mycoplasma: Options and Approaches
- Antibiotics: Antibiotics are the primary treatment for mycoplasma infections and can be administered as syrup, pills, or injections. The treatment lasts a few weeks and focuses on reducing symptoms rather than eradicating the bacterium. The cat will remain a carrier of mycoplasma for the rest of their life.
- Steroids: In cases of severe autoimmune hemolytic anemia (IMHA) that does not respond solely to antibiotics, steroids may be used as well.
- Supportive care: Cats with Mycoplasma infections often require fluid IV therapy and blood transfusions.
- Prevention: Year-round anti-flea treatments are likely to prevent infections. Additionally, neutering and keeping cats indoors can help reduce aggression, stress, and injuries, possibly contributing to mycoplasma infection risk.
Mycoplasma: Surprising Facts
About a third of cats who suffer from this disease and are left untreated will die.
Although this is a common bacterium, much remains unknown because it’s difficult to grow under standard laboratory conditions. It’s similar to a virus in that it lacks a typical cellular structure.
Mycoplasma is generally not dangerous to humans. However, there have been a few documented cases of human infection.
Vet's Tip: Dealing with Mycoplasma
Since fleas are carriers of Mycoplasma, regular prevention treatments are essential. Contrary to common belief, ticks and fleas are active year-round, not just during the summer. Routine veterinary visits and vaccinations are also crucial, as they help prevent other diseases that can lead to mycoplasma infections.
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Latest in Research and Treatments
Studies on cats’ natural immunity to mycoplasma show that re-infection is rare. These findings and ongoing research can hopefully lead to the development of a vaccine against mycoplasma in cats.
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