Like the "stomach flu" in human, the "cat flu" is actually a misnomer. Cat flu is not caused by the influenza virus. Instead, it refers to a syndrome that affects a cat's upper respiratory tract that is caused by two other, highly contagious viruses: the feline calicivirus (FCV) and feline herpesvirus (which casuses FVR). These viruses spread though cat-to-cat interaction or contact with exposed food, litter, or bedding.
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FCV infection
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Symptoms of FCV include fever, mucus discharge from the eyes and nose, sneezing, hoarseness and ulcerations in the mouth.
FCV joint pain
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In some cats, widespread arthritic-type pain may present in multiple joints after a bout of FCV.
FCV and secondaty infections
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If a secondary bacterial infection develops, FCV can progress into pneumonia. Symptoms of pneumonia include labored breathing, lethargy, and dryness of nose and mouth.
FVR symptoms
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Infection with FVR causes coughing, sneezing, nasal discharges, fever, dry eyes, or loss of appetite.
FVR and ulcers
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Some cats develop pinpoint or dendritic ulcers on their corneas when infected with FVR.
FVR and secondary infections
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In most FVR cases, a cat allowed to rest and recuperate will recover within 4 to 7 days, however, any secondary infections can prolong the appearance of symptoms.
Diagnosing
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Veterinarians have to use specialized lab tests to diagnose different types of cat flu---especially since they share so many symptoms with other types of feline respiratory disease.
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