What It Is And How Cats Get Infected 

Leptospirosis is a zoonotic infection caused by pathogenic Leptospira spp. Cats are exposed mainly through contact with urine contaminated water, soil, or surfaces, and through hunting or eating infected prey (especially rodents). Many infected cats remain subclinical, but they can still develop antibodies and, importantly, may shed leptospires in urine for variable periods. Risk is higher for outdoor cats, cats living around rodent infestations, and cats with frequent access to standing water or damp environments. Because clinical disease in cats is less common and often nonspecific, feline leptospirosis can be missed unless it is actively considered during a renal or hepatic workup.

Clinical Picture And When To Suspect It 

When cats do become clinically ill, presentations tend to overlap with other causes of acute kidney injury or hepatopathy. Common findings can include lethargy, anorexia, fever, vomiting, dehydration, abdominal discomfort, jaundice, and laboratory evidence of azotemia with or without increased liver enzymes and hyperbilirubinemia. Thrombocytopenia and inflammatory leukogram patterns may occur but are not diagnostic. Consider leptospirosis when there is acute renal injury (especially with concurrent hepatic involvement), when there is relevant environmental exposure, or when there is household or kennel level concern because of zoonotic risk. Since shedding can be intermittent, a single negative test does not fully exclude infection.

Vetfor Diagnostic Support  

For feline leptospirosis, the most practical diagnostic approach is combining nucleic acid detection with serology when possible. PCR performed early in disease (often on whole blood) can support acute infection, while urine PCR may help identify renal carriage or ongoing shedding; timing and prior antibiotics can reduce sensitivity. VetFor’s Leptospira Detection Kit is positioned as a PCR based option for feline testing, supporting quicker decision making when leptospirosis is on the differential. Regardless of the platform, treat suspected cases promptly with appropriate antibiotics and supportive care, and address carrier risk while using strict urine handling hygiene due to zoonotic transmission.

References

Murillo A, et al. Leptospirosis in cats: current literature review.
ABCD. Leptospirosis in cats
MSD Veterinary Manual. Leptospirosis in animals: overview.