Bacteriological Profiles of Conjunctivitis in Neonatal and Juvenile Cats: A Comparative Analysis

Authors : Batuhan Umut Çakıl, Sumeyye Sainkaplan, Ecem Karademir, Ali Alparslan Sayım, İrem Ergin

Pages : 161-176

Doi:10.32707/ercivet.1701032

View : 106 | Download : 92

Publication Date : 2025-12-26

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :Conjunctivitis is an inflammatory condition of the conjunctiva caused by infectious or noninfectious factors that disrupt or stimulate the local defense system. It is commonly observed in animals of all ages, with bacterial pathogens from the normal microbiota or external sources being the primary cause. This study investigates bacterial alterations in the conjunctival microbiota of neonatal and juvenile cats (under 1 year) presenting with conjunctivitis and evaluates the influence of animal-related and environmental factors using various statistical methods. Fifty cats were included: 25 neonates and 25 juveniles of mixed breeds and sexes. Each cat underwent a detailed anamnesis and ophthalmic examination, including direct ophthalmoscopy, slit-lamp biomicroscopy, Schirmer test, and fluorescein staining. Conjunctivitis severity was scored from 0 to 4. Conjunctival swabs were cultured, and bacterial identification was performed. Neonates showed more severe clinical signs and significantly higher bacterial growth (P<0.05). Staphylococcus spp. and Pseudomonas spp. were isolated in juveniles, while neonates exhibited a broader bacterial spectrum, including Staphylococcus spp., Streptococcus spp., Pasteurella spp., Corynebacterium spp., and Actinobacillus spp. Age was the most significant factor influencing bacterial growth. The findings suggest that neonates are more susceptible to conjunctival bacterial microbiota, likely due to immature immune defenses. This study highlights the need for age-specific considerations in the diagnosis and management of feline conjunctivitis.
Keywords : Bakteri, kedi konjunktivitis, mikrobiyota, patojenler

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