Herpesvirus Infection in Cats (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis) – Feline herpesvirus infection, also called Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis (FVR), is a common and highly contagious upper respiratory disease of cats. The virus causing feline herpesvirus infection is feline herpesvirus type-1 (FHV-1). FHV-1 is infectious to cats and can infect the nose (nasal mucosa), throat (pharynx), and eyes (conjunctivae). Kittens and felines with compromised immune systems can have long-term sequelae from infection.
For cat owners and caretakers, it is valuable to understand this viral disease, as early identification and proper management will result in a better quality of life for affected cats.
What is Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis (FVR)?
Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis is an upper respiratory tract infection that is caused by FHV-1, a virus classified in the Herpesviridae family. Once a cat becomes infected with herpesvirus, it remains in the cat’s system for the remainder of the cat’s life, which means the herpes virus can remain dormant and can reactivate during periods of illness or stress.
Feline herpesvirus infection is one of several pathogens associated with the feline respiratory disease complex, which also includes the calicivirus and Chlamydia felis. Feline herpesvirus is particularly known for producing severe conjunctivitis, sneezing, nasal discharge, and corneal ulcers.
How is FHV-1 Transmitted?
Feline herpesvirus can easily be transmitted between cats and is highly contagious. FHV-1 can be transmitted through –
- Direct contact with live feline saliva, eye discharge, or nasal secretions of an infected cat.
- Aerosolized droplets from the sneezing or coughing of an infected cat (inhale or through direct contact with droplets).
- Indirect contact from contaminated objects, such as the cat’s food or water bowl, bedding, or grooming tools.
Feline viral rhinotracheitis is not a zoonosis and cannot effectively transmit from cats to people or other animal species, but multi-cat households, catteries, and shelters are very susceptible to outbreaks.
Signs of Infection in Cats
Signs of feline herpesvirus mainly appear 2-5 days after exposure and can range from mild signs to severe illness. General clinical signs include –
- Repeated sneezing
- Nasal congestion and both clear and/or yellow/green nasal discharge
- Lacrimation (watery eyes) or swollen eyes
- Conjunctivitis (inflammation of the inner eyelid)
- Eye ulcers or lesions on the cornea
- Fever
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
In kittens and senior cats, the condition can be severe, leading to secondary bacterial infections or pneumonia.
Diagnosis
Veterinarians may diagnose a cat with herpesvirus infection based on the clinical signs and medical history, and potential exposure. In some instances, you may also choose to carry out diagnostic tests such as –
- PCR test (Polymerase Chain Reaction) from swabs of the mouth, eyes, or nose
- Fluorescein eye staining to assess for corneal ulcers
- Culture to test for concurrent infections
Because many infected cats can remain carriers without showing clinical signs, lab testing of any cat helps to confirm either active viral shedding or differentiate between other pathogens if needed.
Treatment and Management
Unfortunately, there is no cure for feline herpesvirus. Treatment, therefore, is aimed at managing the clinical signs, decreasing the viral load, and preventing secondary infections.
Medical Treatments
Antivirals – Some of the same antivirals that humans use, such as famciclovir, can be prescribed for more severe or chronic cases.
Antibiotics – Should only be used when there is a bacterial infection.
Eye drops/ointments – For conjunctivitis or keratitis.
L-lysine supplements – An amino acid that has been recognized as a potential viral replication inhibitor. Though there is some dispute over how it works.
Supportive Treatment
- Maintaining hydration and nutrition (an appetite stimulant may be beneficial).
- Nasal decongestants or steam therapy to help with congestion.
- Keeping the cat comfortable and warm, with little stress.
- Isolation is the order to prevent infecting other cats.
Chronic or Recurrent Infections
Once a cat has been infected with FHV-1, they are carrier for life. The virus can remain dormant in a cat’s body and can be reactivated when the cat is stressed, ill, and/or has a weakened immune system. The cat can shed the virus and be symptomatic during reactivation. Chronic eye issues are still very common. Long-term infections can lead to some chronic eye issues, such as keratitis or persistent conjunctivitis, which can be managed by their veterinarian and monitored.
Prevention of HVD-1
You can see how vaccination is an important part of prevention. The FVRCP vaccine (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia) is considered a core vaccine, and as such, should be given to all cats, regardless of their status at the moment. Some preventive actions might include –
- Vaccinating kittens starting at 6-8 weeks, as indicated by the vaccination schedule.
- Fostering a low-stress environment.
- New or sick cats should be isolated until they are introduced to other animals.
- You need to maintain appropriate hygiene and sanitation.
Although the vaccine does not guarantee that a cat will not develop an upper respiratory infection, it will greatly decrease the overall severity and duration of clinical signs.
Living with a Cat with Herpesvirus
Many cats with herpesvirus can have long and happy lives through management. Owners should be mindful of their cat’s stress levels, provide a loving and clean environment, and be sure that they are receiving regular care from a veterinarian. If your cat is developing additional eye problems in addition to respiratory problems, be advised that your veterinarian will want to make a plan regarding management for an individual cat if they are actively symptomatic.
Conclusion
Feline Herpesvirus Infection (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis) is a manageable and common disease that is associated with lifelong implications. As a cat owner, you must understand how it spreads and the symptoms to observe, as well as prevention methods.
Most cats with FHV-1 enjoy long, healthy, and full lives with effort from their veterinarians and compassionate care from their human families. Vaccination, initiation of early intervention when signs are observed, and admission of possible reactivation of the virus are all based on addressing this chronic virus.
FAQs
Can I catch herpes from my infected cat, or can my dogs get herpes from my cat?
No. Feline herpesvirus is species-specific. Affected cats cannot transmit the virus to humans, dogs, or other animals.
Is there a cure for feline herpesvirus?
There is no cure. An affected cat becomes a carrier for life. Most cats do well with appropriate management, and clinical signs are well-controlled, leading a normal life.
How effective is the vaccine for FHV-1?
The FVRCP vaccination goes a long way in reducing the severity and duration of signs and symptoms if the cat does contract herpesvirus. While it can’t completely stop infection, especially in high-risk settings, it is critical to maintain infection control during outbreaks.
What should I do if my cat has an episode?
If there is an episode, keep track of the symptoms of discharge from the eyes, sneezing, and lethargy. Make your cat comfortable and ensure it is getting food, then contact your veterinarian for advice. Depending on the severity of the situation, you may be prescribed antivirals or supportive treatments.
