Immune system
Like us humans, our pets are also exposed to different pathogens every day. If your cat's immune system is strong enough, these "attacks" are usually not a major problem. In animals with a weaker immune system, such as kittens or sick or older cats, however, the pathogens have an easier time. But what makes your feline friend's immune system strong and what can you do to help? Fortunately a lot! You can find out exactly what you can do here.
DEFINITION
What does the immune system do?
Viruses, bacteria, fungi and parasites - your cat's immune system faces different challenges every day. Infection usually occurs from one animal to another through direct contact, via the air (droplet infection), through body fluids (e.g. saliva or urine), but also via contaminated food/water or objects. However, before an infection can occur, your pet's body uses a few basic defense mechanisms: Skin and mucous membranes, the ciliated epithelium of the respiratory tract, and even stomach acid. Once the intruders have overcome these obstacles, your cat's immune system is in top gear. It calls on immune cells and antibodies to render the invaders harmless before they can do any damage.
Despite good defenses, an infection can still occur from time to time. However, if the immune system works reliably, the symptoms are usually only mild and of comparatively short duration. The situation is different if your cat's immune system is weakened. In this case, the body's defenses are unable to withstand the various stresses. If an infection occurs, the disease breaks out with clear symptoms and the healing process can take a long time. Typical infectious diseases in cats include, for example, cat flu.
SYMPTOMS
Symptoms that indicate an infection
It is not only older and previously ill cats that often have weakened immune systems. Kittens whose immune system is not yet sufficiently "trained" may also get ill more quickly. If your cat has just had an infection, it may also be more susceptible to pathogens again. Take a close look at your cat to recognize the signs:
An infection and its symptoms weaken your cat's body and the immune system also uses up energy. If your cat is often exhausted or noticeably calmer, this may indicate an infection.
Is your four-legged friend reacting in an unusually negative way to being touched or doesn't want to be petted by you? This may indicate general discomfort or pain.
If your cat repeatedly suffers from infections such as colds, bladder infections or skin infections, this could be an indication of a weakened immune system.
Fever is a reaction of the immune system to fight pathogens. Your healthy cat has a body temperature between 38 and 39 °C. Kittens have a higher body temperature. A temperature of up to 39.8 °C is usually no cause for concern. At a temperature of 40 °C or above, your cat clearly has a fever, which can become life-threatening starting at 41 °C. To be on the safe side, consult your vet if the temperature is above 39.0 °C.
The immune system also plays an important role in supporting wound healing. If your cat's injuries or wounds take an unusually long time to heal, this could also indicate a weakened immune system.
If your cat is not eating as usual, it is advisable to measure its body temperature. This is because fever and inflammatory processes in the body often trigger a loss of appetite. An infection can also lead to gastrointestinal complaints such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. You should keep a close eye on this and, depending on the severity and duration, have it checked out by a vet.
If your cat is losing weight despite eating normally, this could be a sign of a weakened immune system and possible underlying health problems. So you should always be aware of this warning sign.
You should take the mere suspicion that your cat may be suffering from an infection seriously and visit your vet as soon as possible at the first sign. This is the only way that suitable treatment can be given promptly.
CAUSES
Causes of a weakened immune system
There are phases in your cat's life when the immune system is more challenged. For example, the change of coat in spring and fall as well as winter are challenging times. The following factors can also weaken the immune system:
- Diseases
e.g. infections, parasite infestation, chronic underlying diseases, allergies - Stress
e.g. triggered by relocation, change of caregivers, new animals in the household, hectic environment, travel - Housing conditions
e.g. too little exercise, too short rest periods, stays in boarding kennels, transportation - Feeding
e.g. inadequate composition (lack of nutrients) or poor quality of food, also too little liquid - Medication
e.g. cortisone
The age of animals also plays a role when it comes to their immune system. For example, the immune system of kittens is not yet fully developed and is only trained through contact with pathogens. In contrast, the production of antibodies and immune cells decreases with increasing age, which restricts the function of the immune system.
You know your pet best!
If your cat is prone to stress and falls ill quickly after stressful situations (e.g. when traveling), ask your vet about preventative measures. Because avoiding or reducing stress is another cornerstone for a strong immune system.
DIAGNOSIS
Examination and diagnosis
If you discover signs in your cat that indicate an infection and therefore a weakened immune system, your vet will investigate what is wrong. Depending on the symptoms, it may be necessary to carry out blood or fecal tests, for example. In some cases, it may also be necessary to assess the organs with an ultrasound examination or take an X-ray.
As health problems of all kinds can weaken the immune system, regular health checks and preventive examinations are particularly useful in order to detect and treat illnesses as early as possible. Especially for older animals!
TREATMENT
Treatment of complaints
How your cat's symptoms are treated always depends on what caused them. If a weakened immune system is detected in the course of the actual illness, temporary support is advisable. This allows the body to help itself again. Natural veterinary medicines with the ingredients white swallowwort and sulphur, for example, have proven effective in strengthening the immune system. These ingredients can support the immune system, help fight viruses and help to clear mucus in the case of respiratory diseases. Your vet can advise you on suitable preparations and other ways in which you can support your cat's immune system.
PREVENTION
Strengthen the immune system
For your cat's immune system to work effectively and reliably, its living conditions are crucial. A balanced diet, a stress-free, species-appropriate environment and physical and mental exercise are a good basis. In concrete terms, this can look like this, for example:
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If your cat is already a senior citizen, it is advisable to provide targeted support for the immune system. The same applies if your furry friend already has another illness or is increasingly exposed to pathogens due to frequent outdoor access. It may also be necessary to support the immune system after treatment, such as with antibiotics.
Heel Vet
If you want to support your cat, consider the natural veterinary medicines from Heel Vet.
