How to Control Herpes Outbreaks in Cats

Feline rhinotracheitis virus, otherwise known as feline herpes or FHV-1, causes flulike symptoms in cats for up to two weeks at a time. Your furry friend will most likely be sneezing frequently, have a fever, and have a discharge coming from his nose and eyes. Feline herpes-1 is responsible for as many as 90 percent of all cases of feline upper respiratory complex, and sometimes there is more than one infection at a time. For this reason, it's important to visit the vet's office if your cat is experiencing the above symptoms, especially if it seems to be a on-again, off-again condition.

Things You'll Need

  • Antiviral medication
  • Antibiotics
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Instructions

    • 1

      Keep your cat away from other cats if she is showing signs and symptoms of feline herpes, or flulike symptoms such as nasal discharge and sneezing.

    • 2

      Take the cat to the vet as soon as possible. The veterinarian will be able to confirm a diagnoses of feline herpes by taking a swab of the mouth, nose, and/or eyes to test.

    • 3

      Give your cat the antiviral medication prescribed by the vet. Make sure to follow the directions on when and how to administer it.

    • 4

      Treat your kitty with all other prescribed medication, such as antibiotics, if there are secondary infections or lesions. Flulike symptoms might disappear during treatment, but it is important not to stop giving the cat medication unless the vet says to.

    • 5

      Make sure your kitty is getting enough fluids, and make his life as stress-free as possible. Stress can prolong a feline herpes outbreak or make it worse.

    • 6

      Keep the cat's nasal passage clear by putting him in the bathroom with the hot water running in the shower a few times a day, or use a humidifier. When cats suffering from a feline herpes outbreak can't smell their food because of a stuffy nose or too much nasal discharge, it affects their appetite and they often stop eating.