Feline Herpes Sores

The feline herpes virus affects wild and domestic cats. The virus causes herpes, or cold sores, and once a cat is infected she will have the virus and recurrences of the herpe sores for the remainder of her life, according to CureForHerpes.org.

  1. Location of Herpes Sores

    • Cats generally suffer from feline herpe sores in the eyes, according to CureForHerpes.org. Eye-drops and cat formulated medication can help a cat suffering from the virus more comfortable.

    Symptoms

    • Symptoms of feline herpes virus include inflammation of the nose, known as rhinitis, inflammation of the membrane lining the eyelid, known as conjunctivitis, and sneezing and nasal discharge.

    Potential Outbreaks

    • The first outbreak of herpes and cold sores are typically the worst, but over time the cat's immune system fights off the virus making future outbreaks smaller.

    Causes

    • Feline herpe virus can occur with cats of all ages and breeds. The virus is more common in kittens born to infected mothers, unvaccinated cats and sick or pregnant cats, according to AnimalHealthChannel.com. Feline herpe virus is common in pet adoption shelters, catteries and households with multiple cats due to overcrowding, poor ventilation, nutrition and sanitation.