Understanding Feline Herpesvirus: Causes, Symptoms, & P
Signs of Herpes Virus
Herpes, also known as viral rhinotracheitis, is a condition currently identified by only one serotype. Virtually all infections result in lifelong viral carriage, and the virus often recurs during periods of stress or illness.
The symptoms of herpes can trigger acute upper respiratory diseases and eye infections. Cats may exhibit signs such as fever, depression, loss of appetite, and discharge from the eyes and nose that is either serous or serosanguineous. They may also have conjunctivitis, sneezing, and less commonly, drooling and coughing.
How to Prevent Herpes Virus?
Preventive measures include enhancing nutrition, avoiding stress, and changing environments to minimize stimuli. Kittens as young as 8 weeks old can receive vaccinations on a regular schedule, such as the Merial's Multiflex vaccine.
Treatment Methods: Cats may experience potassium and bicarbonate losses due to inadequate eating and drooling, so intravenous fluid therapy is often recommended.
Eating is crucial for cats with various diseases. Many cats refuse to eat due to a loss of smell and oral ulcers. Offering palatable food, gently warming and stirring it to stimulate appetite, and administering appetite stimulants like cyproheptadine (brand name: Cyproheptadine) can be helpful. If a cat does not eat voluntarily for more than three days, it is advisable to use a feeding tube.
Nasal discharge should be cleaned with saline solution, and vaseline ointment can be applied to prevent the discharge from sticking to the nostrils. For the eyes, nonsteroidal antibiotic eye drops or ointments should be administered.
