Companion Animals

Companion Cat Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis Management

Management of feline viral rhinotracheitis and welfare of cats with recurrent respiratory disease.

Key Facts

Feline herpesvirus-1 (FHV-1) causes rhinotracheitis with eye and nasal discharge
Most cats become latently infected after initial exposure
Recurrence is triggered by stress, concurrent illness, and immunosuppression
Antiviral treatment with famciclovir reduces severity and duration of flares
Vaccination reduces severity but does not prevent FHV-1 latency

Welfare Considerations

Recurrent FHV-1 disease causes episodes of respiratory and eye discomfort that significantly reduce welfare, and stress management alongside antiviral treatment improves outcomes.

What You Can Do

Minimise stress triggers for cats with recurrent FHV-1 disease
Seek prompt antiviral treatment for severe eye flare-ups
Vaccinate cats to reduce disease severity if exposed to herpesvirus