Feline Rhinotracheitis

This disease primarily involves upper respiratory problems in cats. The virus is a component of the FVRCP vaccination given to kittens and adult cats.

This disease is caused by the feline herpesvirus. It is spread either by cat-to-cat contact or by airborne means.

There is an acute onset of sneezing, conjunctivitis, and fever. Some pets can have abundant nose and eye discharge. Most cats stop eating because they are unable to smell food. These cats can develop corneal ulcers if left untreated.

Supportive care is usually very effective and involves fluids, antibiotics, and eye ointment. A drug called Lysine can also help the body in eradicating the virus. It is very important to make these cats eat, so enticing them with canned food or force-feeding them may be necessary.Some cats become chronic carriers and will develop clinical signs intermittently throughout their lives. They generally still respond well to the above protocol.It is important to vaccinate kittens and adults for the herpesvirus to prevent this disease. Talk to your veterinarian about how often to vaccinate your pet.