Nasal Bordetella refers to a common bacterial infection primarily affecting the respiratory tracts of various animals. This condition can lead to discomfort and illness, impacting breathing and nasal passages.
What is Bordetella Bronchiseptica?
Nasal Bordetella refers to the bacterium Bordetella bronchiseptica, a Gram-negative bacterium. This highly contagious bacterium primarily targets the respiratory systems of various animals, causing inflammation of the trachea and bronchi. It is a common cause of infectious tracheobronchitis, often called “kennel cough” in dogs.
The bacterium spreads through several common modes of transmission. Direct contact, such as nose-to-nose interaction, licking, or nuzzling, can easily transmit the infection. Airborne droplets from coughing or sneezing are another frequent means of spread, especially in poorly ventilated or crowded environments. Additionally, contaminated objects like shared food bowls, toys, bedding, and even human hands or clothing can act as fomites, carrying the bacteria. Primary animal hosts include dogs, cats, rabbits, and pigs, with cases also reported in various wild mammals.
Recognizing Symptoms and Diagnosis
Infection with Bordetella bronchiseptica can manifest with a variety of clinical signs in affected animals. A common symptom in dogs is a harsh, dry, hacking cough, often described as a “goose honk.” Other signs include sneezing, watery nasal discharge, and sometimes retching.
In more severe instances, animals may exhibit lethargy, fever, or a decreased appetite. Cats, in particular, might display symptoms like fever, coughing, sneezing, and ocular discharge, which typically resolve within 7 to 10 days, though young kittens or highly stressed cats can develop severe pneumonia. Symptoms can range from mild to severe, and some animals may even be asymptomatic carriers, spreading the bacteria without showing signs of illness.
Veterinarians typically diagnose the condition through a combination of methods. A physical examination and a detailed history of the animal’s exposure are usually the first steps. To confirm the presence of Bordetella bronchiseptica, specific tests like nasal or pharyngeal swabs for PCR testing or bacterial culture are used. These tests help to identify the bacterium’s genetic material or grow the organism in a laboratory setting.
Treatment and Management
Treatment for Bordetella bronchiseptica infection involves targeting the bacteria and alleviating symptoms. Antibiotics are commonly prescribed to eliminate the bacteria, with doxycycline being a frequent choice. Other antibiotics such as amoxicillin-clavulanic acid, azithromycin, or enrofloxacin may also be used, depending on the specific case.
Cough suppressants, such as hydrocodone or butorphanol, can alleviate persistent coughing. Anti-inflammatory medications may also be used. Supportive care measures are important for recovery, including adequate hydration and nutrition. A calm, stress-free environment helps the animal rest and recover.
Prevention and Zoonotic Considerations
Preventing Bordetella bronchiseptica infection involves several strategies, with vaccination being a primary defense. Vaccines are available for both dogs and cats and can significantly reduce the severity of symptoms and the likelihood of infection. These vaccines can be administered intranasally or by injection, and their effectiveness relies on stimulating the immune system to produce antibodies.
Beyond vaccination, practicing good hygiene is important to limit spread. This includes thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting shared bowls, toys, bedding, and other surfaces, as the bacteria can survive in the environment for several weeks. Avoiding overcrowded areas, such as kennels or dog parks, and isolating sick animals can also help prevent transmission. While Bordetella bronchiseptica is primarily an animal pathogen, human infections are rare. When they do occur, they are typically observed in individuals with compromised immune systems. In very rare instances, zoonotic transmission has been reported from live attenuated vaccines to immunocompromised individuals.