Pathogens
Chlamydia felis

Chlamydia felis

Precautions

Standard Precautions

General Information

  • PCR
  • Culture can be performed but is largely restricted to research studies
  • ELISA and IFA can also be performed

Gram-negative, obligate intracellular pathogen.

Cat-adapted species but has occasionally been reported in dogs. Human infection has been suggested but is unclear.

Commonly found in healthy cats, especially those living in groups. Prevalence decreases with increasing age.

Conjunctivitis is the main clinical problem but infections of the genitourinary tract, joints and lung can occur

Doxycycline is the main treatment. 

Other options include fluoroquinolones and amoxicillin/clavulanic acid. Azithromycin can be used with good clinical response but may be inferior for elimination of the bacterium. However, it has not been well investigated and azithromycin is a common alternative in humans, typically with short courses (e.g. single dose or 3 days for chlamydial conjunctivitis).

Topical treatment can be used for ocular infections but this is typically done in conjunction with systemic treatment. Topical oxytetracycline, erythromycin, chloramphenicol or a fluoroquinolone are options.