How to treat feline herpesvirus

Feline herpesvirus is generally treated with symptomatic therapy. First, it is necessary to take oral or injectable antibiotics to prevent secondary bacterial infections. Secondly, if the cat is dehydrated, oral rehydration salts or intravenous fluid therapy is required. Meanwhile, daily intake of lysine can effectively inhibit the replication of feline herpesvirus. However, it is worth noting that L-lysine should not be taken on an empty stomach, as high-purity L-lysine may cause vomiting in cats. Additionally, to encourage the cat to eat during treatment, small amounts of cat food can be given. This helps the cat recover and can also supplement some nutritional paste or probiotics.

What causes feline herpesvirus?

Feline herpesvirus is primarily caused by contact transmission. The virus is secreted through the cat's nasal, ocular, and pharyngeal secretions and can be contracted by susceptible cats through direct contact or inhalation of virus-containing droplets. There is no lysine in the cat's body to inhibit herpesvirus, so once a wound appears on the cat's skin, the virus can be transmitted through licking, causing ulcers on the skin or local ulcers on the face due to infection from nasal and ocular secretions. Additionally, virus血症 can cause pregnant cats to transmit the virus to their fetuses, leading to miscarriage.

Can feline herpesvirus be self-healed?

Feline herpesvirus generally does not resolve itself. The virus is a common infectious disease in cats, characterized by upper respiratory symptoms such as sneezing, rhinorrhea, coughing, lacrimation, and increased ocular and nasal secretions. The herpesvirus mainly spreads between cats, with a high mortality rate, so if a cat is suspected of infection, do not wait for it to heal on its own, as the condition may worsen. Immediate measures should be taken to help the cat recover.

How long does it take for a cat with feline herpesvirus to recover?

The treatment period for feline herpesvirus is generally 7-10 days, and it cannot be completely cured. Instead, it can only control the condition and alleviate clinical symptoms.

How long does it take for a cat with feline herpesvirus to die?

A cat with a pure herpesvirus infection generally will not die. However, if secondary bacterial infections occur, causing severe respiratory symptoms or if the sick cat becomes anorexic and unwilling to drink water, death can occur within 3-7 days.