Cat Flu: Definition, Symptoms, and Treatment Process
One of the most common respiratory tract diseases among cats is cat flu. Another name for this condition is "feline upper respiratory infection." This condition is also known as cat cold, and it can occur for various reasons. The most common causes of cat flu include Feline Herpesvirus (FHV-1) and Feline Calicivirus (FCV). In addition, bacterial infections such as Chlamydophila Felis and Bordetella Bronchiseptica, as well as viral infections like Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) and Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV), along with numerous infectious agents, can cause cat flu.
What is Cat Flu?
The most common causes of cat flu are Calicivirus (FCV) and/or Herpesvirus (FHV or FHV-1). When a cat becomes infected with these viruses that cause cat flu, it is possible for the cat to carry the virus for the rest of its life. Despite treatment, your cat may continue to have symptoms throughout its lifetime, or symptoms may recur due to factors such as illness or stress.
The Causes of Cat Flu
About 80% of cat flu cases are caused by one of two viruses: Feline Herpesvirus (FHV) or Feline Calicivirus (FCV).
Other causes of cat flu include bacteria such as Chlamydophila Felis (formerly known as Chlamydia) and Bordetella Bronchicepta, which is responsible for kennel cough in dogs.
After contracting the infection, cats spread virus particles through nasal and eye discharges as well as saliva. While sick cats are the primary source of infection, some healthy cats can also be carriers of the virus. 'Carriers' do not show symptoms of the disease, but they can spread virus particles to other cats. Particles can survive in the environment for up to a week, so a cat doesn't need to come into direct contact with another cat to contract the disease. The virus can also easily spread through contact with infected food bowls or toys.
What are the Symptoms of Cat Flu?
When your cat is infected with the flu virus, it may take up to two weeks for symptoms to appear. There is a high likelihood, especially in untreated kittens, of developing eye ulcers that can lead to eye damage. Both kittens and older cats have immune systems weaker than healthy adult cats. This can lead to more severe symptoms and even the development of a secondary condition caused by the cat flu. The most commonly observed symptoms are as follows:
- Inflamed throat
- Nasal discharge or runny nose
- Sneezing
- Coughing (with a wheezing sound)
- Mouth ulcers
- Saliva dripping
- Fever
- Loss of voice
- Conjunctivitis (pink eye) or eye discharge
- Low energy
- Loss of appetite
How is Cat Flu Diagnosed?
Special viral and bacterial tests can be used to determine the specific type of pathogen. For example, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests can detect viral DNA or RNA, and these tests are particularly successful in detecting FHV-1 or FCV infections. The accurate diagnosis of cat flu requires a combination of observing clinical symptoms and conducting laboratory tests. Veterinarians combine these methods to determine the most appropriate treatment for the cat.
Treatment of Cat Flu
Cat flu is a common health problem in cats that causes upper respiratory tract infection. Although this condition is generally caused by viral agents, bacterial infections can also contribute. Treatment can vary depending on the cause of the infection, its severity, and the overall health of the cat.
- Supportive Care: The most crucial need for a cat displaying flu symptoms is supportive care. Adequate fluid intake should be ensured, and if there is a lack of appetite, special diets for cats may be offered.
- Antibiotics: If the presence of a bacterial infection is detected or if there is a high risk of secondary bacterial infection, antibiotic treatment may be recommended.
- Antiviral Drugs: In some cases, especially in feline herpesvirus infection, antiviral drugs can be effective.
- Eye Drops and Ointments: Topical treatments can be applied for eye infections and conjunctivitis symptoms. These treatments can help reduce inflammation in the eyes and control the infection.
What Should Be Done to Prevent Cat Flu?
The best way to protect your cat from cat flu is to get them vaccinated against the viruses that cause cat flu. Your cat will need two core vaccinations throughout its life, followed by booster shots. While vaccination may not completely prevent your cat from contracting the flu, it can help them develop less severe symptoms.
Can Cat Flu Be Transmitted to Humans?
According to scientific data, FHV-1 and FCV do not have the potential to cause illness in humans. However, cat flu viruses spread only among cats and the risk of transmission is higher in stressful, crowded, or unhygienic environments.
The VetAmerican Medical Veterinary Team is a
group of experienced veterinarians. By keeping up with current veterinary sciences and animal health
practices, they aim to provide the highest standards of knowledge and treatment methods. They produce
scientifically sound, reliable content on the health and well-being of your pets.