Feline herpesvirus (FHV-1) causes chronic eye disease in cats that requires long-term management, as the virus remains dormant and reactivates during periods of stress.
Chronic FHV-1 eye disease causes recurring cycles of painful conjunctivitis and corneal ulceration. Corneal ulcers are intensely painful - affected cats squint, tear excessively, and show sensitivity to light. The chronic relapsing nature means cats may live years with repeated painful episodes. Stress reduction through environmental enrichment, stable routines, and pheromone products directly reduces welfare burden by decreasing reactivation frequency.