Feline calicivirus or (FCV) is a common upper respiratory infection in cats. It is species-specific and highly contagious. For this reason, it’s prevalent in cat shelters and other multi-cat facilities. Cats of all ages are susceptible to the virus, but it is most often seen in kittens over 6 weeks of age.
Causes of Feline Calicivirus
Feline calicivirus is transmitted through direct contact with virus particles. Uninfected cats can contract the virus by coming into contact with discharge from an infected cat’s eyes, mouth, or nose.
Common ways for infection to occur include sharing litter boxes and food dishes, inhalation of virus particles in the air, and mutual grooming. This is why cats that live in multi-cat households are at greater risk of contracting the virus.
Symptoms of Feline Calicivirus
Please visit your veterinarian immediately if your cat displays any of the following signs and symptoms of feline calicivirus infection.
- Sneezing
- Discharge from the eyes or nose
- Coughing
- Conjunctivitis (pink eye)
- Nasal congestion
- Mouth ulcers
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
- Lameness
- Pneumonia
Diagnosis of Feline Calicivirus
Your veterinarian will assess your cat’s medical history and perform a thorough physical examination to check for clinical signs of FCV. Diagnostic tests such as a complete blood count and urinalysis may also be carried out to evaluate your pet’s overall health. In addition, X-rays or other imaging techniques may be used to check for underlying health issues such as pneumonia. In many cases, the results of these tests will be sufficient for your veterinarian to make a presumptive diagnosis of feline calicivirus. If a definitive diagnosis is necessary, samples of discharge from your cat’s nose or eyes will be taken. The samples will then be analyzed in a laboratory to identify the virus.
Treatment of Feline Calicivirus
While there is no known cure for FCV infection, symptoms can usually be treated effectively. Depending on the severity of your cat’s symptoms, your veterinarian will decide on an appropriate course of treatment.
In some cases, cats will need to be hospitalized to stabilize their condition. This is usually only necessary if an animal has developed a more serious condition such as pneumonia. Nutritional support and fluid therapy may be given to aid your pet’s recovery in an in-patient setting.
If your cat’s symptoms are less severe, your veterinarian will usually prescribe medications to minimize symptoms of FCV and address any secondary conditions. Commonly prescribed medications include antibiotics, antiviral drugs, painkillers, and anti-inflammatories.
Conjunctivitis and eye irritation can be treated with medicated creams or eye drops. Additionally, your veterinarian may suggest other treatment methods to minimize your cat’s symptoms such as using a humidifier at home to ease nasal congestion.
During recovery, it is important to clean around your cat’s eyes and nose to prevent buildup of discharge. Feeding a healthy and balanced diet will also support your cat’s immune system and help them fight off infection. Please follow your veterinarian’s treatment advice closely and administer all medications as instructed to help your cat recover as quickly as possible.
Prevention of Feline Calicivirus
Since feline calicivirus is highly contagious, it can be difficult to prevent your cat from becoming exposed to it. The best way to protect your pet is by vaccinating them against FCV. While this will not prevent them from contracting feline calicivirus, it will help reduce symptoms of the virus if they are exposed to it.
For this reason, the FCV vaccine is considered a core vaccine that should be administered to kittens and kept up to date with boosters throughout a cat’s lifetime. Please consult with your veterinarian to discuss vaccination options to protect your cat.
