Symptoms of Feline Herpesvirus Infection: What to Look

When a cat contracts the feline herpesvirus, the symptoms can vary depending on the stage of the disease. Initially, the signs may mimic those of a common cold, making it easy to confuse the two. However, it's crucial to differentiate between feline herpesvirus and feline cold symptoms, as they require accurate diagnosis and treatment. Here's a detailed look at the specific symptoms that cats may exhibit upon infection with the herpesvirus:

Initial Symptoms

‌Upper Respiratory Infection: Cats may exhibit symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, a rise in body temperature, and an increase in nasal discharge. Initially, this discharge may be watery, but it can later become purulent.

‌Eye Issues: Cats may suffer from excessive tearing, increased eye discharge, and may develop conjunctivitis, leading to red and swollen conjunctivae.

‌Mood and Appetite: Cats might show signs of depression and a decrease in appetite.

Intermediate Symptoms

‌Worsening Eye Conditions: The conjunctivae may become more inflamed, with an increase in purulent discharge, potentially causing the eyes to stick shut, a condition known as "sore eyes" or "sticky eyes."

‌Systemic Symptoms: Cats may experience fever, a significant drop in appetite, and weight loss.

‌Respiratory Issues: The increase in nasal discharge can lead to rapid breathing and respiratory distress.

Advanced Symptoms

‌Nasal Membrane and Discharge Changes: The nasal membrane may become congested, and the discharge may contain blood.

‌Oral Ulcers: Cats may develop ulcers on the tongue and in the mouth, causing pain and potentially leading to a refusal to eat.

‌Weight Loss and Dehydration: Due to prolonged loss of appetite and the discomfort of the illness, cats may become significantly thinner and dehydrated.

‌Complications: In severe cases, the infection can lead to conjunctival perforation, blindness, and even death.

Special Symptoms

‌Ulcerative Stomatitis: Some cats may develop ulcerative stomatitis, characterized by small blisters on the oral mucosa that progress into painful, bright red ulcers.

‌Skin Ulcers: If a cat has a wound on its skin, it may inadvertently introduce the virus to the wound through grooming, leading to skin ulcers.

In summary, while the symptoms of feline herpesvirus can be similar to those of a cold, they are generally more severe. Cats can carry the virus for life and may experience recurrences. If your cat shows any of these symptoms, it's essential to seek veterinary care promptly for professional testing and treatment.

During treatment, in addition to medication, supportive care is vital, including providing a nutritious diet and maintaining a clean environment. Medications typically include antivirals like valacyclovir, ganciclovir, and feline interferon, as well as antibiotics such as amoxicillinclavulanate potassium and doxycycline (also known as "Floxin"), eye drops, and other symptomatic treatments.

In conclusion, the symptoms of feline herpesvirus are diverse and can vary from one cat to another. Therefore, if your cat displays any suspicious symptoms, it's imperative to consult a veterinarian immediately and follow their treatment recommendations.