How is feline herpes spread

A cat with herpes can only transmit the disease to other cats, meaning you, your family members, and your dog are all safe from contracting feline herpes, and vice versa. The active infection with herpes virus typically lasts 10 to 20 days. The symptoms of feline herpes virus look very similar to several other upper respiratory infections, but herpes' calling card is conjunctivitis.

Cats with chronic herpes infection can sometimes develop keratoconjunctivitis sicca, also known as KCS or dry eye. This condition requires lifelong medication to encourage tear production in the eyes. Feline herpesvirus is usually diagnosed based on the clinical findings and the history that you provide. Since involvement of the eyes is one of the things that sets herpes apart from other upper respiratory infections, your veterinarian may do a Schirmer tear test to evaluate your cat's tear production and check for dry eye or do a fluorescein stain to check the corneas for ulcers.

Your veterinarian can also take swabs from your cat's eyes and throat and send them out for PCR testing to identify any viral DNA. There is no cure, so cat herpes treatment is focused on alleviating symptoms and limiting flare-ups.

Your cat will likely be prescribed topical eye drops and ointments to soothe the eyes and treat any ulcers that may be present. Ulcers can rupture the eyeball if left untreated, so it is very important to follow the instructions for these medications.

Antiviral medications can help to curb viral replication and assist your cat's immune system, and antibiotics may be used to treat any secondary infections present. Your cat will also need basic nursing care, such as keeping his eyes and nose free of debris and warming up his food so he can smell it through his stuffed-up nose.

Blot away any discharge with a damp paper towel or terry cloth rag. This is important to help prevent the nostrils from being blocked up from nasal crusting. This way, the steam can help humidify the nasal passages and make your cat breathe better. Tasty food: With herpesvirus, your cats can eat whatever they want! Try to tempt your cat to eat with tasty canned tuna in water , meat-based human baby food or any kind of tasty canned food. Topical, ophthalmic anti-viral ointments can also be used e.

In severe cases, where a secondary bacterial infection occurs e. Keep in mind that antibiotics can often cause cats to lose their appetite, or develop vomiting and diarrhea. A veterinary exam is a must in a newly adopted or purchased cat. References Scott FW. Feline Calicivirus Infection. Typically, upper respiratory infections last between days. If you do not see improvement in your cat, or suspect they are suffering from an upper respiratory infection, make an appointment with your veterinarian.

If your cat is showing signs of feline herpes virus infection, please make an appointment with your veterinarian for an examination. General Health. By My Happy Pets. What is Feline Herpes Virus FHV-1 : Feline herpes virus is a common viral infection that can affect cats of all ages and breeds worldwide. Vaccination against herpesvirus infection is included in the typical feline vaccination schedule provided by a primary care veterinarian.

There are several different vaccine forms, including injectable and intranasal forms. A herpesvirus vaccine reduces the clinical signs of herpes recurrence but does not prevent future outbreaks.

It is not recommended that the first vaccination be given to a patient with an active infection, it will not reduce the severity of signs and may add additional stress to the patient, complicating recovery.

Most feline patients infected with herpesvirus recover uneventfully and without the threat of long term problems. Kittens and patients with a compromised immune system can have a very difficult time recovering from the infection. Because these patients are often in a weakened state, the viral infection takes an enormous toll on them, and some will succumb to complications of infection. Severe inflammation of the eyes and nose can complicate long-term quality of life as well as cause some significant cosmetic scars, but many cats can coexist with their recurrent infection in the hands of devoted families.

Patients with chronic, relapsing infection or that have developed scarring of the eyes, nose, and sinuses may need specialized care for their whole lives with an ophthalmologist or internal medicine specialist.

Follow-up is necessary if the patient requires chronic or intermittent anti-viral therapy, respiratory therapy, or surgical intervention. Skip to content.