It may be time to consider leptospirosis in cats

In this 2023 literature review, George E. Moore, DVM, PhD, DACVIM, DACVPM, opines cats may have an underrecognized role in the epidemiology of leptospirosis. His review’s tenets continue to be supported in more recent pieces despite cats rarely showing clinical signs. Notable takeaways include:

• Cats, particularly free-roaming or stray cats, may have serologic evidence of exposure to Leptospira spp.
• Public health precautions should be taken when handling patient urine, as leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease.

Source: Clinician’s Brief, September 2023. Link.  

Infected cats may shed leptospirosis in their urine for months to years and contribute to environmental contamination if they live outdoors.”

Also see:

• Vaccine updates to discuss with clients, Veterinary Practice News, June 9, 2026. Link. Update and educate clients on vaccine safety, diseases they may be unaware of, and when to get titers.
• Search Results for: lepto in cats; AHD Archives. Link.