Upper Respiratory Disease in Cats and Welfare

Feline upper respiratory infections are highly prevalent in multi-cat environments and cause significant acute and chronic welfare harm.

Key Facts

Feline herpesvirus (FHV-1) and calicivirus cause the majority of upper respiratory infections in cats
Shelter cats have infection rates of 40-80% due to stress and close contact
Chronically infected cats shed herpesvirus during stress periods throughout their lives
Clinical signs include sneezing, nasal discharge, conjunctivitis, and oral ulceration
Vaccination reduces severity but does not prevent infection with all circulating strains

Welfare Considerations

Upper respiratory infections cause acute suffering from nasal congestion impairing smell and therefore appetite, painful oral ulceration, and conjunctivitis. Cats that lose smell refuse food, leading to hepatic lipidosis in severe cases. Chronic herpesvirus carriers experience recurrent episodes triggered by stress, meaning welfare harm can persist throughout life. Stress reduction in multi-cat environments and shelters is both a welfare intervention in itself and reduces recurrence of herpesvirus-associated disease. Good isolation protocols in shelters limit infection spread.

What You Can Do

Vaccinate cats against herpesvirus and calicivirus as part of core vaccination
Reduce stress in multi-cat households by providing adequate resources and space
Seek veterinary attention promptly for cats showing respiratory signs
Support shelter improvements reducing crowding and stress to limit disease spread