Feline Herpes Virus: Causes, Symptoms & Care Guide

Many cats do not receive optimal veterinary care early in their lives. Feral or semi-feral cats often lack the careful rearing that indoor pets benefit from. These cats may be exposed to viruses at a young age, relying only on short-lived maternal antibodies for protection. Without early vaccination, they risk diseases including Feline Herpes Virus (FHV), a common cause of respiratory problems in cats.

What is Feline Herpes Virus?

Feline Herpes Virus (FHV-1) is a highly contagious virus specific to cats that mainly affects the upper respiratory tract and eyes. It is the predominant viral cause of sneezing, nasal discharge, and conjunctivitis in cats. Importantly, human herpes viruses do not infect cats, and FHV cannot be transmitted to humans or other species. The virus is widespread across the UK and internationally, affecting cats of all ages, breeds, and genders.

How do cats catch FHV?

FHV spreads easily through:

• Direct contact with saliva, nasal and eye discharges from infected cats.
• Aerosol droplets spread from sneezes of virus carriers.
• Sharing contaminated food and water bowls, litter trays and toys.
• Contact with contaminated bedding, although the virus survives only 1-2 days outside the body.

After initial infection, cats often appear healthy but carry the virus in a latent state, potentially causing future flare-ups.

Symptoms of FHV

FHV symptoms resemble a cold and contribute to what is often termed "cat flu". Common signs include:

• Upper respiratory signs such as sneezing, nasal and eye discharge, conjunctivitis, lethargy, drooling, reduced appetite, fever, and coughing. These may last from days to weeks.
• Eye complications including inflammation of the cornea and possible ulcers, leading to chronic eye problems in some cases.
• Rarely, FHV causes dermatitis with painful inflammation and ulceration around the nose and mouth, sometimes affecting front legs as well.

Diagnosing FHV

Diagnosis is usually clinical based on symptoms typical of an upper respiratory infection. Definitive diagnosis can be made by veterinary testing such as swabs from eyes or mouth sent for viral culture or genetic detection. Biopsies may be used if skin lesions are present.

Managing FHV in Cats

While vaccination against FHV, as part of cat flu vaccines, does not always prevent infection, it greatly reduces disease severity and complications. Cats should always be kept up to date with vaccinations for their health and to protect other cats.

FHV remains lifelong in cats, residing latently and flaring under stress or immune compromise. Management focuses on reducing flare-ups and treating symptoms when they appear.

Medical Treatments

• Antiviral medications (some off-label from human medicines) help control viral activity.
• Antibiotics may be prescribed to address secondary bacterial infections.

Owner Care

• Maintain a calm, low-stress environment to reduce flare triggers.
• Practice strict hygiene, cleaning food bowls, water dishes, litter trays frequently.
• Keep eyes and nose clear of discharge, washing hands regularly to prevent spread.

Life With a Cat Carrying FHV

With proper care, cats infected with FHV can enjoy a good quality of life. Owners should learn to recognise early signs of flare-ups and maintain cleanliness to help control the virus. Many owners choose to keep affected cats indoors to protect them and other cats from infection risk.

Managing this long-term condition requires commitment, including potential veterinary visits and medications, which may have cost implications. A strong relationship with your veterinary surgeon and staff is vital for ongoing support and advice.

Ultimately, owning a cat with FHV can be deeply rewarding with the right knowledge and veterinary partnership, ensuring your feline companion remains comfortable and loved.