Cat's Diseases

Cat Flu

Cat flu is a general term which describes upper respiratory infections seen in cats and kittens caused by Feline Herpesvirus, Feline Calicivirus and Feline Rhinotracheitis virus. Other infectious agents such as Bordetella bronchiseptia and Chlamydia are sometimes implicated.

The disease is usually seen in young, stressed or immunosuppressed cats. Pure-breed cats and cats living in catteries are probably more at risk. Transmission is by contact with clinically sick cats, cats that appear healthy but are carrying the disease and shedding the virus or objects infected by these cats.

Infected cats and kittens have typical upper respiratory tract signs. They often have fever, nasal and ocular discharges and sneeze frequently. Other signs include redness of the eyes, increased salivation, decreased appetite and in severe cases death can result.

Treatments are usually symptomatic and consist of decongestants, nebulizing, antibiotics and antiviral drugs.

Prevention is by vaccination and regular health checks. Cat flu is very common in Hong Kong especially in pure-breed cats.