Cat pneumonia is a dangerous illness but it can be cured if the right treatment is given
. Your cat's pneumonia is caused by a swollen lung. Unfortunately, if left unchecked it can take your cat's life. Generally, a viral infection causes pneumonia in cats. This virus affects the respiratory system but in the presence of bacteria it can become pneumonia. Viruses that can change into this illness include the parainfluenza virus and the feline calcivirus.
The symptoms of pneumonia are easily recognized. A cat that has pneumonia will exhibit multible signs of severe illness. Their appetite will disappear which will eventually cause dehydration. If it is left untreated, the pneumonia will make it harder for the cat to breathe and will cause the cat to cough frequently. A high temperature is another symptom that appears as the condition progresses.
The vast majority of cat pneumonia cases can be treated by getting your cat diagnosed by a vet. The vet will prescribe antibiotics to combat the bacterial infection that is causes the illness. Make sure all of the symptoms of pneumonia have disappeared before you stop giving your cat the antibiotics. If you do it too soon, some of the infection might survive and learn to resist the medication. Your vet will also make sure that there is enough oxygen in your cat's bloodstream. If there isn't, your vet will provide oxygen therapy.
Several other things should be done if your cat has pneumonia. First, you must give it a warm and dry place to rest. Setup a dehumidifier to keep the air dry and help keep the fluid in your cat's lungs from building up. Do your best to make sure your cat relaxes as much as possible. Place its litter box, food dish and bed all in the same area so that excessive movement isn't necessary. Exercise will only make the problem worse.