Cat flu is a collective name for upper respiratory tract infection in cats. Here you will learn more about the infection, how to prevent it and treat if your cat should be affected! Cat flu is a common disease that can vary considerably in its severity. The disease can be more severe in young kittens, older cats and cats who are immunosuppressed because they occasionally go on to develop secondary infections.
Cat flu can be caused by several different types of infectious agents, both viruses and bacteria. The main causes of cat flu are feline herpes virus (FHV-1) and feline calicivirus (FCV). It is estimated that about 80-90% of cat flu cases are caused by these viruses. However, the bacteria Chlamydofila felis, Bordetella bronchiseptica and Mycoplasma spp can have a part in cat flu. The bacteria often come after the virus, when the cat's immunity has been reduced by the viral infection. The viruses are usually transmitted by direct or close contact between cats, but the virus may also survive for short periods in the environment.
Many of the cats infected with the herpes virus become chronic carriers, and they can continue to spread the virus even after they are no longer ill, especially if they are exposed to stress (for example, travel, major changes in the cat's environment, operations, etc.). The cat can secrete the virus up to a couple of weeks after being exposed to stress.
From the time your cat may come in contact with the infection. It takes about 2-10 days before the disease breaks out.
If the cat has typical signs of feline flu, especially if several cats in the same household have become ill, the vet will usually suspect cat flu. Samples can be taken from the cat in the acute phase (when the cat has recently started to show signs) to try to find which infectious agent is causing the problem. For example, swabs can be taken from the eyes to rule out causes such as Chlamydophila felis. This can be a good idea if you have more than one cat. If you only have one cat and it is not very ill, a sample is rarely taken.
If the signs do not resolve, then further investigation will be needed to identify the underlying cause. The cat may need sedation or a general anaesthetic in order to examine the nose and throat, for example, to check for foreign bodies, a polyp, tumour or dental problem. Endoscopy, x-rays and computed tomography (CT) can be very helpful in these cases. They allow any necessary samples to be collected from the nasal passages.
Cats can unfortunately get chronic problems and despite investigations, it is not always possible to determine the cause of recurrent or chronic feline flu.
Treatment depends on your cat’s signs. It usually involves supportive treatment at home. It is important that the cat gets enough nutrition. Cats that are unwell are often reluctant to eat. The smell of food usually stimulates cats to eat and this will be affected if they have cat flu. If they have ulcers in their mouth, eating may be uncomfortable. Offer your cat warmed soft foods; adding warm water or warming it to room temperature can help. If your cat will not eat their normal food, offer them oily fish, chicken or a special diet like Royal Canin Recovery diet or Hills a/d. These are high calorie diets, so they only require a small amount, and they have a strong aroma, which often tempts cats to eat.
Keep their eyes and nose clean, and if possible, they should stay indoors and rest. Nasal drops with saline solution (without a prescription at the pharmacy) can sometimes provide some help. If your cat seems lethargic, it may be wise to take the temperature of the cat 1-2 times a day. Read our guide to doing a physical examination of your pet. It is important not to give human medication to your cat, as it can be harmful. Please seek veterinary advice in the first instance, if you are concerned about your cat.
A course of antimicrobials may be prescribed by your vet if a secondary bacterial infection is present. Your vet might also talk to you about doing a blood test to check your cat’s red and white blood cell count and to check their hydration. They may suggest checking if your cat is a carrier of Feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) or Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV).
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