Cat Flu Symptoms

Like the "stomach flu" in human, the "cat flu" is actually a misnomer. Cat flu is not caused by the influenza virus. Instead, it refers to a syndrome that affects a cat's upper respiratory tract that is caused by two other, highly contagious viruses: the feline calicivirus (FCV) and feline herpesvirus (which casuses FVR). These viruses spread though cat-to-cat interaction or contact with exposed food, litter, or bedding.

FCV infection

Symptoms of FCV include fever, mucus discharge from the eyes and nose, sneezing, hoarseness and ulcerations in the mouth.

FCV joint pain

In some cats, widespread arthritic-type pain may present in multiple joints after a bout of FCV.

FCV and secondaty infections

If a secondary bacterial infection develops, FCV can progress into pneumonia. Symptoms of pneumonia include labored breathing, lethargy, and dryness of nose and mouth.

FVR symptoms

Infection with FVR causes coughing, sneezing, nasal discharges, fever, dry eyes, or loss of appetite.

FVR and ulcers

Some cats develop pinpoint or dendritic ulcers on their corneas when infected with FVR.

FVR and secondary infections

In most FVR cases, a cat allowed to rest and recuperate will recover within 4 to 7 days, however, any secondary infections can prolong the appearance of symptoms.

Diagnosing

Veterinarians have to use specialized lab tests to diagnose different types of cat flu---especially since they share so many symptoms with other types of feline respiratory disease.

Resources

• Feline upper respiratory tract disease
• Feline Upper Respiratory Infection

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