CHRONIC RHINITS WITH BRONCHITIS IN DOMESTIC CAT

Abstract

Chronic rhinitis in cats is a syndrome associated with inflammation of the nasal cavity; it is often associated with secondary infection of the frontal sinuses, and usually lasts more than 1 month. This case study aims to determine the conclusion of several supporting examinations performed to diagnose chronic rhinitis in cats and its treatment. Examination was made on a 3-year-old female local cat with a body weight of 2.65 kg with a history of nasal discharge since approximately 2 years ago, sneezing, and occasionally followed by coughing with harsh-sounding breath. Physical examination showed a rough sound or stridor when the cat breathed, mucopurulent discharge in both nostrils, sneezing with high frequency and occasionally followed by coughing. Cytologic examination of nasal swab revealed rod-shaped bacteria, degenerate and non-degenerate infiltration of neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes and plasma cells. Mild interstitial pattern in the lung, and increased opacity or ring-like opacities ("donuts") at some bronchial ends were observed on radiographic examination. Bacterial growth and identification tests were positive for Proteus sp. bacteria. The cat was diagnosed with chronic rhinitis with bronchitis and treated with Cefixime antibiotic (12 mg/kg BW; q12 h; PO), anti-inflammatory corticosteroid Methylprednisolone (2 mg/kg BW; q24 h; PO) with tappering off dose, mucolytic decongestant Bromhexin HCL (1 mg/kg BW; q24 hours; PO), and immunomodulator Caviplex (2 ml; q24 hours; PO). Treatment for 14 days showed an improvement in the cat's condition where nasal discharge that was previously mucopurulent became serous and at certain times no discharge was found, the frequency of sneezing and coughing decreased, and the cat could eat and drink comfortably. The decision to select an antibacterial agent to treat rhinitis should be made based on the results of pharyngeal and nasal discharge swab cultures.