Companion Animal Welfare

Cat Feline Calicivirus Welfare Management

FCV causes oral ulceration and respiratory disease. Management focuses on infection control and supportive care to minimize suffering.

Key Facts

FCV accounts for 50% of upper respiratory infections in cats
Oral ulcers are a distinguishing feature causing significant oral pain
Some FCV strains cause systemic disease with high mortality
Vaccination reduces severity but does not prevent all infection
Environmental persistence of FCV requires thorough disinfection

Welfare Considerations

Cats with active FCV infection suffer from oral pain that reduces eating, nasal congestion, and systemic malaise. Oral ulceration is particularly impactful as it directly prevents normal feeding behavior. Supportive care including appetite stimulants, nutritional support, and pain management significantly reduces the duration and severity of suffering.

What You Can Do

Vaccinate all cats against FCV as part of core vaccination
Seek veterinary care for cats with oral ulcers or respiratory signs
Implement shelter disinfection protocols when FCV is confirmed
Support access to core vaccination in underserved cat populations