Feline Herpesvirus Symptoms Treatment and Prevention Guide

Have you ever noticed your cat sneezing unexpectedly, with watery eyes or a sudden decline in energy? These seemingly minor symptoms could signal a common respiratory infection in felines—feline herpesvirus (also known as feline viral rhinotracheitis).

Feline herpesvirus, often likened to the common cold in cats, is highly contagious. What makes it particularly challenging is its ability to remain dormant in a cat’s system, reactivating periodically and posing ongoing health risks. Early detection and proper treatment are crucial to preventing severe complications.

Feline herpesvirus infections can range from mild to life-threatening, with severe cases potentially leading to pneumonia. Watch for these critical signs:

• Swelling, ulcers, or excessive discharge around the eyes
• Persistent sneezing and nasal discharge
• Loss of appetite and lethargy
• High fever (body temperature exceeding 39.5°C or 103.1°F)
• Labored breathing or severe nasal congestion

If your cat exhibits occasional sneezing or mild nasal discharge but remains active and eats normally, monitor them for 1–2 days. However, if symptoms persist beyond 48–72 hours or are accompanied by appetite loss or lethargy, seek veterinary care immediately. Eye-related symptoms—such as increased discharge or conjunctival redness—require urgent attention, as they may indicate corneal ulcers.

• Gently clean eye and nasal discharge with a soft, damp cloth.
• Offer wet food or easily digestible meals if appetite is reduced.
• Use a humidifier to ease respiratory discomfort.

Note: These are temporary measures and do not replace professional veterinary treatment.

Feline herpesvirus type 1 (FHV-1) is a leading cause of upper respiratory infections in cats. Kittens and immunocompromised cats are at higher risk, often experiencing more severe symptoms.

The virus spreads through:

• Airborne transmission: Viral particles in sneezes or ocular/nasal secretions can infect nearby cats.
• Direct contact: Contaminated objects (food bowls, bedding, toys) or human hands/clothing can transfer the virus. Multi-cat households require strict hygiene protocols.

• Exposure to stray cats (for outdoor-access felines)
• Introduction of new cats into the home
• Visits to veterinary clinics or pet stores
• Multi-cat living spaces

Beyond respiratory issues, FHV-1 can cause whole-body effects, especially in vulnerable cats:

• Fever: Temperatures above 39.5°C (103.1°F) cause lethargy and inactivity.
• Anorexia and weakness: Cats may refuse food entirely, risking dehydration.
• Dehydration: Check skin elasticity by gently pinching the neck skin—slow retraction indicates fluid loss.

Primary manifestations include:

• Sneezing: Progresses from occasional to frequent bouts.
• Nasal discharge: Starts clear but may turn thick and yellow/green, indicating secondary bacterial infection.
• Mouth breathing: Severe nasal congestion forces open-mouth respiration, requiring emergency care.

Eye involvement can escalate rapidly:

• Conjunctivitis: Red, swollen eyes with yellow/green discharge.
• Corneal ulcers: Painful erosions on the eye surface, potentially causing blindness if untreated.

Veterinarians use:

• Clinical examination: Assessing symptoms and medical history.
• PCR testing: Detects viral DNA in swabs from eyes/nose (results may take days).
• Supportive tests: Bloodwork or X-rays for severe cases (e.g., suspected pneumonia).

While the virus cannot be eradicated, treatments focus on symptom management:

• Antiviral/antibiotic eye drops for ocular lesions
• Nebulization therapy to relieve nasal congestion
• Fluid therapy and appetite stimulants for systemic support

Hospitalization is necessary for cats with high fever, dehydration, or respiratory distress.

• Kittens: Initial series at 8, 12, and 16 weeks of age
• Adults: Annual boosters

• Quarantine new cats for 1–2 weeks before introduction.
• Disinfect shared items regularly.
• Wash hands after handling other cats.

Minimize stressors that weaken immunity:

• Provide quiet resting areas
• Maintain consistent routines
• Avoid frequent rearrangement of litter boxes/food stations

Q: Can humans contract feline herpesvirus?
No, but humans can mechanically transmit the virus between cats via contaminated hands or clothing.

Q: Is a complete cure possible?
The virus remains latent but can be managed with proper care to control flare-ups.

Q: Recovery timeline?
Mild cases resolve in 1–2 weeks; immunocompromised cats may require extended care.