How does feline upper respiratory infection cause

Feline upper respiratory infection is primarily an acute infectious disease caused by the feline herpesvirus, characterized by symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, runny nose, depression, decreased appetite, gradual weight loss, increased secretions from the eyes, and upper and lower eyelid adhesion. Additionally, because feline upper respiratory infection is contagious and can spread to other cats, if a cat comes into contact with another cat suffering from the infection, it may become infected and carry the virus for the rest of its life.

Feline herpesvirus infection

Feline upper respiratory infection is mainly caused by cats infected with herpesvirus. Cats with weak resistance and those who have not been vaccinated are more susceptible to infection. Therefore, owners must regularly vaccinate their cats to ensure that they have enough virus antibodies. Usually, three doses of the combined vaccine are required during childhood, and one dose per year thereafter, which can effectively prevent this disease.

Transmission from other infected cats

Feline upper respiratory infection is highly contagious and can spread through nasal discharge, saliva, and secretions of infected cats. It often occurs in closed spaces where many cats gather. Once a cat comes into contact with infected utensils or environments, it can become ill. Therefore, it is recommended that owners minimize their cats' contact with unfamiliar cats. If the owner touches an infected cat or a stray cat outside, they should wash their hands and disinfect them promptly before petting their own cat.

Note: The mortality rate of cats with feline upper respiratory infection is about 30%, but if treated promptly, the cure rate is relatively high. Therefore, if owners notice symptoms such as sneezing and purulent secretions from the eyes and nose in their cats, they should immediately take their cats to a pet hospital for diagnosis and start treatment promptly to avoid delays in diagnosis and treatment.