Feline herpesvirus-1 (FHV-1) is one of the most common causes of chronic eye disease in cats, causing corneal ulceration, conjunctivitis, and stromal keratitis that require long-term welfare management.
FHV-1 eye disease causes recurring episodes of pain, photophobia, and visual impairment that significantly affect cat welfare. Corneal ulceration from herpesvirus is acutely painful — the high nerve density of the feline cornea makes even small lesions extremely uncomfortable. Stromal keratitis from immune-mediated corneal damage can progressively impair vision, affecting the cat's ability to navigate its environment and engage in natural behaviours. The chronic, recurrent nature of FHV-1 eye disease means that stress management — reducing triggers for viral reactivation — is as important as antiviral treatment. Owners need to understand that recurrent eye disease in their cat is treatable and manageable with appropriate specialist support.