Feline Coronavirus in Cats: Causes, Symptoms & Prevention

Feline coronavirus (FCoV) is a common and highly contagious viral infection specific to cats, primarily affecting their gastrointestinal tract. It spreads mainly via the faecal-oral route, often through shared litter trays or contaminated environments, especially in multi-cat households where infection rates can reach 80-90%. Importantly, FCoV is distinct from the human COVID-19 virus and carries no risk of transmission to people.

What Causes Feline Coronavirus in Cats?

The virus is passed from cat to cat most commonly through contact with infected faeces. Cats sharing outdoor toileting areas or litter trays are at particular risk. The virus infects cells lining the small intestine and is shed in the stools of affected cats. Many cats become carriers without showing symptoms but can still shed the virus and infect others.

In the UK, about 40-90% of cats in multi-cat environments have been exposed to FCoV at some point. Most remain healthy or experience only mild, transient symptoms.

Symptoms of Feline Coronavirus

While many cats carry feline coronavirus without illness, symptomatic cases usually involve mild diarrhoea lasting a few days. Occasionally, cats may also have a runny nose or watery eyes. Because symptoms can be subtle, infection may go unnoticed by owners.

Diagnosing Feline Coronavirus

Diagnosis often involves testing faecal samples for viral presence or blood tests to detect antibodies. Vets especially recommend testing new cats joining households or those with weakened immune systems. However, since the virus is common and usually mild, testing is typically reserved for at-risk cats.

Treatment and Management

Most cats recover from feline coronavirus without veterinary intervention. If diarrhoea persists beyond a couple of days, or the cat shows signs of dehydration or loss of appetite, veterinary attention is advised. Treatment may include fluid therapy and supportive care.

Monitoring is important for cats with compromised immunity, as feline coronavirus can mutate into feline infectious peritonitis (FIP), a serious and often fatal disease affecting the immune system. Less than 5% of infected cats develop FIP, which usually occurs in younger cats under 1.5 years old.

Preventing Transmission of Feline Coronavirus

Preventive measures centre on maintaining excellent hygiene, particularly in litter tray management. The virus can survive in dry cat litter and trays for up to seven weeks, so regular cleaning and disinfecting with safe products is essential. Prompt removal of faeces reduces environmental contamination.

Limiting contact between cats, especially in boarding catteries or cat shows, can reduce spread. Also, keeping your cat's stress levels low supports their immune system to better resist infection.

Responsible cat ownership includes awareness of the risks, maintaining clean environments, and consulting veterinary professionals when any signs of illness emerge. This prevents spread within multi-cat households and helps keep your feline companions healthy.