Feline herpes is a common disease among cats. It causes symptoms like sneezing, nasal discharge, red and itchy eyes, and lethargy. Though feline herpes is not usually fatal, it is not curable, either. Thus, it is important that new cat owners know how to prevent their cat from contracting this illness, and what to do if they expect their cat may have feline herpes.
How Feline Herpes is Transmitted and Prevented
Herpes is spread when a cat comes into contact with the nasal discharge, eye secretions, or saliva of an infected cat. It can be passed from cat to cat through grooming, biting, or sharing of a litter box. Thus, the key to preventing feline herpes is to prevent your cat from coming into contact with an infected cat. This can be achieved by:
- Not allowing your cat to go outdoors
- Having someone else take care of your cat in your own home when you go away, rather than taking your cat to a kennel or a friend's house who has cats.
- Not introducing new cats to the household until they have tested negatively for herpes. (Your vet can administer a blood test).
Recognizing the Signs of Feline Herpes
Cats do not always show signs of the virus immediately. Some go months or years before showing any symptoms. Others never show symptoms at all, which is why you should always have a cat tested before introducing it to your household, even if it is symptom-free. In most cats, the primary symptoms of feline herpes are respiratory – sneezing and coughing. Many cats also have a lack of appetite. Some experience eye ulcers or very red, irritated eyes. The symptoms may last for a long time, or they may last several days and then disappear as quickly as they appeared.
What To Do If You Suspect Feline Herpes
If your cat is showing symptoms that you think may be caused by feline herpes, take him or her to the vet for diagnosis. There is no cure for the disease, but your vet can tell you how to help your cat feel better. This may include strategies like:
- Administering antibiotics to fight any secondary bacterial infections that have arisen due to your cat's weakened immunity.
- Feeding your cat a special diet to boost the immune system.
- Using eye drops and inhalers to ease symptoms.
Usually, with a little care and attention, the virus will go into remission again within a few days to a few weeks. However, your cat may have additional flare-ups and need treatment again in the future. Click here to learn more.
