In this study (Willoughby
et al 1991), kitten deaths were reported
in a breeding colony of long-haired cats in the UK. The cattery comprised 23 queens and 5
males. A total of six litters of kittens aged between five and ten weeks developed signs of
respiratory disease over a period of three weeks. Five kittens suddenly became unable to
breathe properly and died in severe distress; seven showed more long-term signs of respiratory
disease and stunting, one of which died. Two kittens were examined post mortem. In both cases
Bordetella bronchiseptica was obtained from samples taken and a diagnosis of bronchopneumonia was
obtained. No respiratory viruses could be isolated.