The Causes of Cat Flu

The cat flu is a respiratory disease caused by two main viruses, feline calcivirus and feline herpesvirus. Symptoms usually affect the upper respiratory tract including the nose, mouth, pharynx, larynx, eyes and trachea. Sneezing, grogginess and a high body temperature are basic symptoms of the cat flu. Young cats and elderly cats are extremely vulnerable to the cat flu. Ask your veterinarian about preventative actions and vaccinations.

  1. Feline Herpesvirus

    • According to the European Advisory Board on Cat Diseases (ABCD), the feline herpesvirus is the main cause of the cat flu. After a cat is infected with the herpesvirus, it becomes a life long carrier. The herpesvirus affects the eyes of the cat the worst. The cat will continually cry and develop puss-like globs that grow over the eyes. Other symptoms include fever, dehydration, loss of appetite and sneezing. This virus is not a deadly, but it is stressful on a cat. Vaccinations for the feline herpesvirus are available, and according to ABCD; the vaccinations are 90 percent effective.

    Feline Calcivirus

    • Feline calcivirus is the second most prominent disease that causes the cat flu. Unlike the feline herpesvirus, feline calcivirus mainly affects the mouth, nose, palate, tongue and lips. Symptoms include fever, lesions on the head, limping, sleepiness, anorexia and ulcers in the mouth. Feline calcivirus is also the main cause of gingivitis in cats. Feline calcivirus is highly contagious, but is not deadly to adult cats. In young kittens the virus can cause serious illness or even death. Ask your veterinarian about preventative actions and vaccinations for feline calcivirus.

    Treatment

    • Although cat flu does not have a specific treatment itself, every symptom can be treated separately. Bacterial infections can be treated with antibiotics prescribed by a veterinarian. The owner should make sure that the nose and eyes stay clear and open by wiping away discharge. Eye drops and ointments are available to help with the discharges. Salty, warm water can also help with the eyes and nose. Make sure the cat stays hydrated by giving it lots of water. Keep the cat in a warm, well ventilated area with fresh air. Try to keep the cat away from other felines to prevent the spread of infection. The cat flu should clear up in about two or three weeks.