The Link Between Cats & Herpes Virus

According to Vetsinfo.com 75 percent to 90 percent of cats carry rhinotracheitis, or herpes 1 virus. Acute attacks of herpes usually last about two weeks and cause minor distress to the cat. If the cat experiences severe symptoms along with herpes, it can indicate more than an acute attack, as well as the development of chronic herpes.

  1. What is Herpes 1?

    • Herpes 1 is a virus that attacks a cat's respiratory system. The cat's eyes, nose, mouth and throat become inflamed. After a few days, the cat begins sneezing. Symptoms usually last two to three weeks. Vetsinfo.com says herpes is a lifelong, chronic condition, while veterinarian Ronald Hines says that it can become chronic if symptoms are severe. Human caregivers do not have to fear feline herpes; while they can spread the disease between cats, it does not affect the human respiratory system.

    How Cats Get Herpes

    • Cats contract herpes in one of two ways, according to veterinarian Ronald Hines on his website, 2ndchance.info. Cats can either come into contact with the virus when an infected animal sniffs them or can contract the virus when an animal sneezes within 10 feet of the cat. People can also spread the virus after petting an infected cat, although humans cannot contract feline herpes.

    Pregnant Cats and Herpes

    • Herpes is dangerous to unborn kittens. Pregnant cats who contract this disease may miscarry the kittens. Kittens born with herpes may have poor health or die of the disease.

    Kittens and Herpes

    • Many older kittens contract herpes. Dr. Hines says that kittens that have herpes may lose their appetite or appear depressed. The kitten may have discharge from his nose or eyes. Symptoms often resolve themselves within three weeks, although some kittens develop chronic herpes. Herpes in kittens is associated with feline HIV; some cats who have herpes develop pneumonia.

    Caring for a Cat with Herpes

    • Vetsinfo.com says to keep the cat's eyes and nose clear of discharge during a herpes outbreak. Wet a cotton ball with warm water and gently scrub these areas. Provide the cat with plenty of clean water, as she will need extra fluids while sick. If the cat's symptoms worsen, it may need to see a vet, who can prescribe antibiotics or other medication to control the virus.