SPOROTRICHOSIS IN CATS

Sporothrix schenckii is a fungus that has the potential to infect

the skin, respiratory system, bones and sometimes the brain,
causing a diseased state called sporotrichosis. Infection is caused
by the virtually ubiquitous dimorphic (mold and yeast) fungus, S.
schenckii, which typically infects via direct inoculation - that is,
through abrasions of the skin or by inhalation. The origin of the
fungus is environmental; it is naturally found in soil, plants and
sphagnum moss, but it can be communicated zoonotically between different animal species, and
between animals and humans.

Cats tend to experience a severe form of cutaneous sporotrichosis, making them an even greater risk
for transmitting the infection to other animals and people. In cats, intact male cats that roam outdoors
and fight are predisposed to puncture wounds, which then offer an advantageous route for S. schenckii
to enter the body. The infection may also be spread by other cats, often through scratches to the skin.

SYMPTOMS AND TYPES

1. Cutaneous sporotrichosis

Bumps, or lesions on the skin surface, swollen lymph glands. Lesions often appear initially as wounds or
abscesses mimicking wounds. Associated with fighting, wounds may be found on the head, lumbar
region, or distal limbs. Previous trauma or puncture wound in the affected area is a variable finding. Poor
response to previous antibacterial therapy. Combination of cutaneous and lymph formusually an
extension of the cutaneous form, which spreads via the lymphs, resulting in the formation of new
nodules and draining tracts or crusts. Lymphadenopathy (disease of the lymphs) is common

2. Disseminated sporotrichosis

Rare, occurs when the initial infection spreads into the body to a secondary location. Systemic signs of
malaise and fever. Osteoarticular sporotrichosis occurs when the infection spreads into the bones and
joints. Sporotrichosis meningitis occurs when the infection spreads into the nervous system and brain.
Symptoms include loss of appetite (anorexia), and weight loss (cachexia)

3. Pulmonary sporotrichosis

Occurs as a result of inhalation of Sporothrix schenckii spores. Infected animal is more at risk of
developing pneumonia

CAUSES
 1. Animals exposed to soil rich in decaying organic debris appear to be predisposed
2. Cat scratches provide an increased opportunity for infection
3. Exposure to infected animals or clinically healthy cats sharing a household with an affected cat
are at risk
4. Immunosuppressive disease should be considered a risk factor

DIAGNOSIS

Your veterinarian will perform a thorough physical exam on your cat, taking into account the background
history of symptoms and possible incidents that might have led to this condition. A complete blood
profile will be conducted, including a chemical blood profile, a complete blood count, and a urinalysis.

It is important to note that this is a zoonotic disease, meaning that it is communicable to humans and
other animals, and proper precautions will need to be taken to prevent the spread of infection. Even if
you do not have a break in your skin, you are not protected against acquiring the disease.

An examination of the fluid from the lesions is often necessary to confirm an infection. A negative finding
does not always rule out the disease. Laboratory cultures of the deeply affected tissue often require
surgery to obtain an adequate sample. These samples will be sent for analysis, along with a special note
to the laboratory listing sporotrichosis as a differential diagnosis. Secondary bacterial infections are
common.