PNEUMONIA ASSOCIATED WITH MYCOPLASMA SPP IN 3 CATS

Mycoplasma spp were isolated in pure culture from bronchoalveolar lava ge specimens from three cats with clinical, cytological and radiograph ic signs of bronchopneumonia or suppurative bronchitis. Predisposing f actors were not identified in the first case, the second cat had oesop hageal hypomotility, while the third cat had been exposed to cigarette smoke and had advanced periodontal disease. Respiratory signs resolve d promptly and completely in all cases following antimicrobial therapy directed against mycoplasmas, Mycoplasma spp are possible causes of l ower respiratory tract disease in cats and this should be considered w hen selecting empirical therapy for feline airway disease and pneumoni a. In some situations mycoplasmas may behave as primary lower respirat ory tract pathogens in cats.