Companion Animal Welfare

Cat Feline Herpesvirus Management

Feline herpesvirus (FHV-1) causes chronic upper respiratory disease in many cats, requiring long-term management to minimize recurrence.

Key Facts

FHV-1 infects the majority of cats at some point, often during kittenhood
The virus establishes latency and reactivates under stress, causing recurrent respiratory signs
L-lysine supplementation was previously recommended but evidence for efficacy is now limited
Antiviral treatments including famciclovir are effective for severe cases
Stress management through enrichment and avoiding multi-cat stress reduces recurrence frequency

Welfare Considerations

FHV-1 is a lifelong welfare companion for many cats - the virus cannot be eliminated, but recurrence frequency and severity can be managed. Identifying and reducing stress triggers, maintaining good nutrition, and treating recurrences promptly minimizes chronic welfare impact.

What You Can Do

Vaccinate cats against FHV-1 as part of core vaccination schedules
Minimize stress triggers for cats with recurrent respiratory signs
Consult your vet about antiviral treatment options during severe recurrences