About Feline Herpesvirus 1
- A common virus affecting cats - other herpesviruses affect other species
- The "FVR" in "FVRCP" combination (three-in-one) vaccines stands for feline viral rhinotracheitis, which is caused by feline herpesvirus 1
- Herpesvirus 1 mainly causes upper respiratory infections ("colds") in cats. The medical term for these infections is rhinotracheitis
- Herpesvirus 1 infections may occur in combination with other viruses or bacteria to produce more severe upper respiratory infections
- Cats with Herpesvirus 1 remain infected for life, even though they may not be showing symptoms. The infection can become "reactivated" intermittently, especially during times of stress, and cause a relapse of symptoms and / or shedding of the virus.
Diseases Associated with Herpesvirus 1 in Cats
Herpesvirus 1 is a very common cause of upper respiratory infections, either alone or in combination with other viruses or bacteria. Signs such as discharge from the eyes and nose, conjunctivitis (red, swollen membranes around eyes), sneezing, drooling, fever, loss of appetite and lethargy are common. You can read more about upper respiratory infection in cats here.
Rarely, herpesvirus 1 can cause pneumonia. Sometime neurological symptoms occur, but this appears to be very rare.
Herpesvirus 1 infections may also be associated with chronic eye inflammation and corneal ulcers, as well as skin disease, though the exact role of herpesvirus 1 in these conditions is uncertain.
Risk Factors for Viral Rhinotracheitis
Kittens are most at risk of becoming ill with herpesvirus 1 (rhinotracheitis), along with unvaccinated cats and cats with weakened immune systems (e.g., FeLV or FIV positive cats, or those ill from other things).
Vaccination against Viral Rhinotracheitis
Different vaccines are available; some are given by injection (usually in combination vaccines) while others are given in the nose. Your vet can help you choose the right type of vaccine and schedule for your cat. Some vaccinated cats may still experience mild illness, and vaccinated cats can still become carriers of the virus though they seem to shed the virus (be contagious) less than unvaccinated cats.
Incubation Period
Signs and symptoms can appear within a couple of days to a couple of weeks after exposure to the virus.
Survival in Environment
The virus can only survive for a few hours in the environment under typical conditions.
Disinfection
Susceptible to most common disinfectants.
Please note: this article has been provided for informational purposes only. If your pet is showing any signs of illness, please consult a veterinarian as quickly as possible.