Download About Feline Herpesvirus 1

About Feline Herpesvirus 1 (HFV 1)
A common virus affecting cats - other herpesviruses affect other
species
The "FVR" in "FVRCP" combination (three-in-one) vaccines stands
for feline viral rhinotracheitis, which is caused by feline herpesvirus 1
Herpesvirus 1 mainly causes upper respiratory infections ("colds") in
cats. The medical term for these infections is rhinotracheitis
Herpesvirus 1 infections may occur in combination with other viruses
or bacteria to produce more severe upper respiratory infections
Cats with Herpesvirus 1 remain infected for life, even though they
may not be showing symptoms. The infection can become
"reactivated" intermittently, especially during times of stress, and
cause a relapse of symptoms and / or shedding of the virus.
Diseases Associated with Herpesvirus 1 in Cats
Herpesvirus 1 is a very common cause of upper respiratory
infections, either alone or in combination with other viruses or
bacteria. Signs such as discharge from the eyes and nose,
conjunctivitis (red, swollen membranes around eyes), sneezing,
drooling, fever, loss of appetite and lethargy are common. You can
read more about upper respiratory infection in cats here.
Rarely, herpesvirus 1 can cause pneumonia. Sometime neurological
symptoms occur, but this appears to be very rare.
Herpesvirus 1 infections may also be associated with chronic eye
inflammation and corneal ulcers, as well as skin disease, though the
exact role of herpesvirus 1 in these conditions is uncertain.
Risk Factors for Viral Rhinotracheitis
Kittens are most at risk of becoming ill with herpesvirus 1
(rhinotracheitis), along with unvaccinated cats and cats with
weakened immune systems (e.g., FeLV or FIV positive cats, or those
ill from other things).
Vaccination against Viral Rhinotracheitis
Different vaccines are available; some are given by injection (usually
in combination vaccines) while others are given in the nose. Your vet
can help you choose the right type of vaccine and schedule for your
cat. Some vaccinated cats may still experience mild illness, and
vaccinated cats can still become carriers of the virus though they
seem to shed the virus (be contagious) less than unvaccinated cats.
Incubation Period
Signs and symptoms can appear within a couple of days to a couple
of weeks after exposure to the virus.
Survival in Environment
The virus can only survive for a few hours in the environment under
typical conditions.
Disinfection
Susceptible to most common disinfectants.