Feline calicivirus is a significant respiratory and oral pathogen in cats that causes chronic welfare problems particularly in multi-cat environments.
FCV causes painful oral ulceration and respiratory disease that significantly impairs cats' ability to eat, groom, and communicate. Chronic carrier cats endure repeated flare-ups of pain and discomfort. The welfare impact is particularly high in shelter environments where transmission is rapid. Vaccination, isolation of new cats, and prompt treatment of clinical disease are the key welfare interventions.