Essential Truths About Cat Rhinotracheitis: What You Mu

Can feline herpesvirus (FHV1), commonly known as feline rhinotracheitis, be completely cured? Why does a cat continue to have a runny nose after recovery? What are the differences between feline rhinotracheitis and a common cold? Do cats with feline rhinotracheitis absolutely need to be treated in a hospital, or can they be treated at home with overthecounter medications? Today, we delve into the truth about feline rhinotracheitis, shedding light on the realities of pet diseases!

1. Can feline rhinotracheitis be completely cured?

Answer: No!

Feline rhinotracheitis, caused by the feline herpesvirus, is a common upper respiratory disease with no known cure. Even after the initial infection, cats can be treated with symptomatic medications to alleviate symptoms, giving the appearance of recovery. However, infected cats become lifelong carriers of the virus. This is because the herpesvirus can establish latent infection in a cat's trigeminal ganglia, meaning that even after clinical symptoms disappear, the virus does not completely leave the cat's body.

When a cat's immune system is weakened, such as due to stress, illness, environmental changes, or malnutrition, the virus can reactivate from latency, begin to replicate again, and cause clinical symptoms like a runny nose and sneezing. This is why cats may still experience these symptoms even after recovering from feline rhinotracheitis.

2. What's the difference between feline rhinotracheitis and a common cold?

● A common cold in cats can refer broadly to upper respiratory infections caused by various pathogens, including bacteria, caliciviruses, mycoplasmas, chlamydias, and feline rhinotracheitis. In a narrower sense, it typically refers to milder respiratory symptoms like sneezing and a runny nose that occur after a cat has caught a chill.

● Feline rhinotracheitis specifically refers to respiratory symptoms caused by herpesvirus infection. In addition to common symptoms like sneezing, a runny nose, coughing, increased eye discharge, conjunctivitis, and fever, it can also lead to symptoms like oral ulcers, decreased appetite, and purulent nasal discharge. In severe cases, it can cause pneumonia, keratitis, and corneal ulcers.

● Symptoms of a common cold are generally mild, and most cats can recover on their own, especially those with strong immune systems.

● Feline rhinotracheitis can lead to severe complications and sequelae, such as pneumonia, keratitis, and rhinitis.

If you suspect your cat has feline rhinotracheitis, you can use feline rhinotracheitis test kits or have PCR testing done at a veterinary clinic.

3. Can a cat die from feline rhinotracheitis?

The incidence of feline rhinotracheitis in kittens is 100%, with a mortality rate of 50%;

In adult cats, the mortality rate is lower, at 20% to 30%;

Early detection and treatment can significantly reduce the mortality rate from feline rhinotracheitis and even prevent sequelae like rhinitis and conjunctivitis. There are almost no cases of death due to feline rhinotracheitis after treatment, and recurrences are rarely fatal.

4. Can feline rhinotracheitis be treated at home?

If a cat's symptoms are mild, you may consider home treatment. Here are some common steps for athome care:

1. Antiviral: Administer famciclovir tablets twice a day, half a tablet each time;

2. Antibacterial and Antiseptic: For kittens, oral Augmentin (amoxicillin clavulanate potassium); for adult cats, oral Doxycycline Hyclate tablets;

3. Symptomatic Treatment: Use acyclovir eye drops or Baytril (sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim) eye drops to relieve eye symptoms; for oral inflammation, use an oral antiseptic spray to reduce inflammation and swelling, and apply iodine glycerin to prevent infection.

4. Nutritional Support: Feed the cat soft, easily digestible canned food; if the cat refuses to eat, use a syringe to slowly feed from the corner of the mouth. Supplement electrolytes, glucose, and vitamins as needed.

5. Prevention of Recurrence: Regularly supplement with lactoferrin and Llysine tablets to boost the cat's immunity. Provide a stable and comfortable living environment and reduce stress.

For kittens with weakened immunity, older cats, and those with underlying health conditions, if the illness appears severe, it is important to seek veterinary care promptly.