We adopted a kitty a few months ago and she had some respiratory symptoms (runny eyes, yucky nose, sneezing). I took her to vet and I asked if they could test for bartonella. She came back as high positive as possible. Usually cats are not treated unless they are symptomatic, which she is. We've tried azith & clavamox (separately) but she has relapsed when off. Now she is actually coughing and she must be cold because she lays on the heat vents. Upon research I found an article from NC State veterinary school saying pradofloxacin & doxy (combo therapy) for 6 weeks has best outcome. The vet has agreed to let me try this. Interestingly, the article states that they recommend starting one abx at a time due to herx reactions! I will retest her at the end of treatment to see if it has worked. I know cipro has a lot of risks but is very effective against human bartonella.
I'm not sure if there's anything we can learn from feline bartonella but thought I would share. I am also giving her probiotics and high quality food. I'm glad I have the knowledge to help her.
If this doesn't work I may call upon a holistic vet.
I'm praying she does not infect any of us! Although my middle daughter did get a small scratch and a few days later had fever which developed into pneum. She had no swollen lymph nodes or the red bump that some get with cat scratch fever. She was treated with azithromycin. I may have her tested in upcoming months. I am keeping the kittens nails trimmed and discouraging any biting.
Post Edited (k07) : 12/14/2017 9:29:49 AM (GMT-7)