Feline Herpes & Humans

In cats, the herpes virus may go by many different names including: feline viral rhinopneumonitis, FVH-1, rhinotracheitis virus or feline herpes virus. Many people are aware of herpes and it's effects on humans; though cats too can suffer from a herpes infection. Fortunately, the herpes virus in cats cannot be spread to humans, nor can the human variety be spread to cats. Owners who have a herpes-positive cat should be informed on the effects of the virus, which can help provide comfort in the knowledge that their cat is not contagious to family and friends.

  1. Transmission

    • Since cats and humans cannot share the herpes virus, a cat can only become infected through another infected cat. For this to occur, the cat must come in contact with bodily fluids from an infected cat. This can include fluids that are discharged from the mouth, the nose or the eyes. This also includes fluids that are expelled during coughing and sneezing. Unfortunately, the feline herpes virus can also survive on litter boxes, in cages or on food dishes.

    Symptoms

    • The feline herpes virus can affect the lining of the nose, the pharynx, the eyes, throat and the sinuses, so often the symptoms are related to these areas. Herpes can cause feline conjunctivitis―or pink eye―where the eyes become red, swollen and produce discharge. Sneezing can occur if the virus is affecting the nose, causing rhinitis. In addition, the cat may suffer from a fever, general malaise, loss of appetite, dehydration and depression.

    Diagnosis

    • Unfortunately, it is somewhat difficult to diagnose the presence of the feline herpes virus; especially if an infection has taken place. This is because the feline herpes virus can be confused with other major feline pathogens including the Chlamydia psittaci and the feline calicivirus. To confirm the presence of feline herpes, the virus needs to be isolated from a mucus membrane, such as the eyes or nose and a cellular culture must be performed.

    Treatment

    • Mild infections, such as pink eye, can be treated with anti-viral or antibiotic medications. Cats with rhinotracheitis, another form of upper respiratory infection caused by the herpes virus, will often heal on their own within a few weeks; especially if they were healthy prior to infection. Medications can be prescribed, though they may not necessarily speed up the course of the infection. Some of the more serious infections may require hospitalization with IV fluids, especially if the cat has become dehydrated.

    Prognosis

    • Up to 95 percent of the feline population may be infected with some form of feline herpes virus. This number may sound alarming, but the vast majority of these cats will never require treatment for any herpes-related health issue. Cats who do become infected may become infected due to autoimmune diseases or other primary health concerns which weaken the body and allow the virus to infect. In these cases, treatment should revolve around treating the primary health issue. Therefore, the prognosis can vary from excellent to grave, depending on the individual cat's case.