How quickly do cats get infected with plague? - briefly
Cats can become infected with the plague within a few days of exposure to infected fleas, rodents, or contaminated environments.
How quickly do cats get infected with plague? - in detail
Cats can contract the plague, caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis, through various routes, including flea bites, contact with infected rodents, or inhalation of respiratory droplets from infected animals. The speed of infection depends on the mode of transmission and the cat’s immune response. When infected via flea bites, symptoms can appear within 1 to 6 days, as the bacteria multiply rapidly in the lymph nodes, leading to swollen and painful buboes, a hallmark of bubonic plague. In cases of pneumonic plague, which occurs through inhalation, symptoms may develop even faster, often within 1 to 3 days, as the bacteria directly infect the lungs. Cats are highly susceptible to the plague, and their infection timeline can be accelerated if they hunt or consume infected prey, such as rodents. Without prompt treatment, the disease can progress rapidly, leading to severe complications or death. Early signs include fever, lethargy, and loss of appetite, which can escalate to respiratory distress, septicemia, or systemic organ failure. Immediate veterinary intervention is critical to manage the infection and improve outcomes. Preventive measures, such as controlling flea populations and limiting exposure to wild rodents, are essential to reduce the risk of plague in cats.