Companion Animals

Cat Feline FHV Advanced Management

Feline herpesvirus is a lifelong latent infection requiring advanced management for cats with recurrent severe flare-ups.

Key Facts

FHV-1 establishes lifelong latency in trigeminal ganglia after initial infection
Stress, immunosuppression, and concurrent disease trigger viral reactivation
Recurrent flare-ups cause conjunctivitis, nasal discharge, and corneal ulceration
Systemic antiviral treatment with famciclovir reduces viral shedding and clinical severity
Topical cidofovir and antiviral eye drops address active corneal herpes infection

Welfare Considerations

Cats with recurrent severe FHV flare-ups experience repeated episodes of eye and respiratory discomfort that cumulatively reduce quality of life. Early antiviral treatment at the first sign of flare-up reduces severity and duration.

What You Can Do

Recognize triggers for FHV flare-ups in your cat and minimize stress where possible
Start antiviral treatment promptly at the first signs of a flare-up
Maintain vaccination and immune support strategies to reduce reactivation frequency