Home Remedies for Feline Rhinitis: Calm & Treat at Home
Dear fellow cat owners, if you notice your feline friend starting to sneeze frequently, have a runny nose, seem listless, or lose their appetite, be on high alert. These symptoms are reminiscent of a cold, but they could be a sign of a serious condition known as feline herpesvirus, or more ominously, "kitten killer." This virus is particularly dangerous for young cats, as it can be quite severe and even fatal. However, don't panic just yet! With the right treatment, you can effectively manage your cat's symptoms right at home!
What is Feline Herpesvirus?
Feline herpesvirus, formally known as feline infectious rhinotracheitis or feline viral rhinotracheitis, is an acute infectious disease affecting a cat's upper respiratory system. It is primarily caused by Feline Herpesvirus type 1 (FeHV1), and sometimes involves other pathogens like the feline calicivirus (FCV), mycoplasma, chlamydia, and Bordetella. This virus is highly contagious and can spread rapidly among cats through direct contact, airborne droplets, or by touching contaminated surfaces.
Symptoms of Feline Herpesvirus
● Coughing, sneezing, and a runny nose
● Watery eyes, photophobia, red and swollen conjunctivae, and hair loss around the eyes and nose
● Elevated body temperature, depression
● Decreased appetite, weight loss
● Nasal and lacrimal discharge that starts clear and becomes mucopurulent
● Some cats may develop oral ulcers
The Dangers of Feline Herpesvirus
✘ It is particularly dangerous for kittens, with a mortality rate of up to 2030% if not treated promptly;
✘ Adult cats, though more resistant, can still suffer from systemic infections due to secondary bacterial infections;
✘ Pregnant cats may experience miscarriage or stillbirth if infected;
✘ Conjunctivitis or keratitis caused by the herpesvirus can lead to secondary bacterial infections, causing corneal perforation and even permanent blindness;
✘ The highly contagious nature of the virus can lead to widespread transmission in multicat households.
Home Treatment Guide
1. Medication
✔ Eye Drops: Use Beranming (Sulfamethoxazole eye drops) and Penciclovir eye drops alternately, 23 times a day.
Sulfamethoxazole eye drops are primarily used for antibacterial purposes to prevent secondary bacterial infections; Penciclovir eye drops are used to combat the herpesvirus. Other options include Ganciclovir, Penciclovir, and Acyclovir eye drops.
✔ Antibiotics: Floromycin (Doxycycline hydrochloride tablets), once daily; Doxycycline is a broadspectrum antibiotic particularly effective against respiratory diseases caused by mycoplasma, chlamydia, rickettsia, and bacteria.
✔ Antiviral: Penciclovir tablets, 12 times a day, 3060mg/kg. For mild symptoms, it may not be necessary to use antiviral medication initially. If symptoms are severe or treatment is not effective, antiviral medication should be used promptly.
2. Daily Care
① Keep your cat warm and comfortable, avoiding direct drafts of cold air. This can help alleviate discomfort and promote recovery.
② Clean your cat's nasal and eye discharges promptly with a damp cotton ball, doing this several times a day.
③ In multicat households, ensure proper isolation and environmental disinfection to prevent the spread of the virus.
3. Nutritional Supplements
● Lysine: This essential amino acid that cats cannot produce on their own helps inhibit the replication of the herpesvirus and strengthens the immune system. There are Llysine supplements specifically designed for feline herpesvirus, which can be given according to instructions.
● Protein: Feed your cat cooked chicken breast, beef, eggs, fish, and other proteinrich foods to boost their immunity. Nutritional supplements like lactoferrin and Antitriol (IgY antibody factor) can also be given.
Ps: In some cases, kittens may develop severe symptoms quickly if the condition progresses to advanced keratitis (decreased corneal transparency or ulcers). In such cases, it is crucial to seek veterinary care immediately.
