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Cat flu: symptoms and treatments
Cat flu is a very common condition in felines. Primarily affecting the eyes and nose, it must be treated early to avoid complications or the development of a severe form.
1. What is cat flu?
Cat flu is an infectious syndrome characterized by upper respiratory tract involvement. Typical clinical signs include sneezing and conjunctivitis. It's somewhat equivalent to a cold or nasopharyngitis in humans, but cat flu can have serious consequences for small felines, even leading to death in fragile animals.
Cat flu is highly contagious and is particularly prevalent in communities (shelters, breeding facilities, etc.).
2. What causes cat flu?
This disease is caused by infectious agents, the main ones being:
· Viruses: herpesvirus, calicivirus, reovirus.
· Bacteria: Chlamydophila, Mycoplasma spp., Bordetella.
Cat flu is transmitted from cat to cat via infected secretions (sneeze droplets, nasal discharge, ocular discharge, etc.). Contamination can also be indirect through soiled objects (bowls, blankets, clothes, or hands, etc.).
A cat that has experienced a viral cat flu episode can remain a carrier of the virus for life. The virus may then reactivate during a decline in general health or stress, leading to a new sequence of the disease.
3. Symptoms of cat flu
Symptoms vary depending on the causal agent. Their intensity also fluctuates depending on the effectiveness of the cat's immune defenses. Kittens and immunosuppressed adult cats (e.g., those with FIV) bear the brunt of this respiratory disease.
The most common clinical signs include:
· Fever and a decline in general condition
· Sneezing and nasal discharge
· Conjunctivitis with tearing
· Coughing
· Loss of appetite
Herpesvirus cat flu is characterized by more severe ocular involvement with the presence of corneal ulcers (a type of abrasion of the transparent layer of the eye). Calicivirus frequently causes ulcers in the mouth and on the tongue (canker sores), leading to salivation and difficulty eating. Bacterial superinfections manifest as purulent discharge; pulmonary lesions or purulent eye discharge are to be feared, especially in kittens.
4. How is the disease diagnosed?
The veterinarian usually diagnoses cat flu based on the present symptoms. To identify the causal agent, they may use a PCR test to detect viral or bacterial DNA present in nasal and/or ocular secretions.
5. What is the treatment for cat flu? / What therapeutic management?
Treatment consists of combating symptoms and superinfections by administering anti-inflammatory drugs and antibiotics. Conjunctivitis is treated with eye drops or ointments. Small care measures, such as cleaning the nose and eyes, and syringe feeding for hydration, are also important to get through the acute phase. In the most severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary to administer intravenous fluids to the animal.
In cases of stubborn or deeper infection, aerosol therapy sessions may be proposed.
There is no specific antiviral treatment against feline herpesvirus or calicivirus; however, in some cases, the veterinarian will prescribe human antivirals to combat these microbes.
L-lysine, an amino acid known to stimulate immunity, is a beneficial dietary supplement to help sick cats recover from cat flu. It is also possible to perform inhalations with essential oils to thin secretions; the cat is placed in its transport box, which is then positioned in front of a bowl of hot water with the product added, all covered with a towel. Be careful of burns if the cat is restless!
6. What is the long-term prognosis?
Cat flu can lead to long-term sequelae, particularly in the eyes: persistent, bothersome scars on the cornea, or even loss of the eye. Furthermore, some animals develop chronic rhinitis following inflammation of the nasal turbinates, which results in respiratory noises (snoring) and recurrent discharge.
Calicivirus is suspected of causing chronic stomatitis (inflammation of the mouth).
Finally, herpesvirus can remain latent in the body and re-emerge regularly, causing multiple episodes of cat flu throughout a cat's life, even in the absence of a recent contagion history.
7. Can cat flu be transmitted to humans?
The disease is not transmitted to humans or dogs.
8. Prevention and vaccination against cat flu
As cat flu is a highly contagious disease, a significant part of prevention involves rigorous hygiene in communities: disinfection of cages, handwashing, etc.
However, at an individual level, the best protection remains vaccination. In France, vaccines against cat flu, including protection against herpesvirus and calicivirus, are available. Some also provide protection against Chlamydias.
Kittens can be vaccinated from 8 weeks of age with a booster at 12 weeks, 16 weeks, and then between 6 and 12 months. Subsequent injections are then annual, or even bi- or tri-annual for low-risk animals (indoor cats with no contact with other cats).
For outdoor cats, sterilization from 6 months of age and vaccination against FelV are also strongly recommended. While these measures do not protect against cat flu, they help limit the risk of contracting FIV (through bites) or FelV, two viruses responsible for a decrease in immunity.
Protecting your cat from cat flu through vaccination is a simple act: let's not deprive them of it!
Article written by Isabelle Vixège, Veterinary Doctor.
FAQ - Cat Flu
Can a cat recover from cat flu?
Yes, a cat can recover from cat flu, especially if the disease is detected early and treated quickly. Cat flu is a viral infection that primarily affects the upper respiratory tract of cats. Although it can be serious, especially in kittens or weakened cats, adequate treatment with antibiotics to prevent secondary infections and supportive care, such as hydration and good nutrition, often leads to recovery. However, some cats may remain carriers of the virus and be prone to relapses.
What are the symptoms of cat flu in a cat?
Symptoms of cat flu in a cat typically include sneezing, nasal and ocular discharge, and coughing. The cat may also experience fever, loss of appetite, and lethargy. In more severe cases, oral ulcers and breathing difficulties may occur. These symptoms are due to an infection of the upper respiratory tract, often caused by viruses such as feline herpesvirus or calicivirus. It is important to consult a veterinarian if these signs appear for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.
How to treat a cat with cat flu?
To treat a cat with cat flu, it is essential to consult a veterinarian quickly. Treatment generally includes antibiotics to prevent or treat secondary bacterial infections, as well as antivirals if necessary. The cat should be well hydrated and encouraged to eat, even if its appetite is reduced. Home care may include cleaning the eyes and nose to remove secretions, and using a humidifier to facilitate breathing. In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary for intensive care.
Is cat flu contagious to humans?
No, cat flu is not contagious to humans. It is a viral disease specific to cats, caused by viruses such as feline herpesvirus and calicivirus, which do not affect humans. Even though cat flu is very contagious among cats, it poses no risk to people caring for a sick cat. However, it is always recommended to follow basic hygiene practices, such as washing hands after handling a sick cat, to prevent the spread of other possible infections.
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