Feline Herpesvirus (FHV-1), also called Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, is a highly contagious respiratory disease in cats. Cats that are unvaccinated and infected with FHV-1 become lifelong carriers, frequently shedding the virus and spreading it to other cats. Vaccination is essential to protect cats from this common feline respiratory infection and reduce transmission risks.

What Causes Feline Herpes Flare Ups?

Feline Herpesvirus (FHV) can reactivate unexpectedly, especially during stressful periods. These flare-ups often lead to respiratory symptoms in cats and increase the risk of spreading the virus to unvaccinated cats. Proper vaccination and stress management are key to reducing the frequency and severity of feline herpes outbreaks.

Feline Herpes Symptoms

FHV-1 in cats usually causes acute sneezing with nasal discharge, conjunctivitis oral ulcers and corneal ulcers, as well as other possible health concerns. Herpes in cats may cause eye loss in very young kittens; in fact, it is the main virus that affects the eye (cornea) in the kitten.

Oral Antibiotics, like Amoxicillin and Doxycycline (in cats over 4 months of age), and eye ointments, like Terramycin^® or Vetericyn^®, are important to help prevent secondary infections and allow healing. Doxycycline tablets should be used with care, as this antibiotic can cause inflammation of the esophagus if administed uncoated. Even with treatment, most cats will be lifelong carriers of the virus. Some studies estimate 70 percent of the feral cat population carries Herpesvirus.

How Often Should You Vaccinate Your Cat for Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis?

It is recommended that adult cats in high-risk environments (such as outdoor cats or cats in breeding colonies) get revaccinated annually for feline viral rhinotracheitis. Vaccinating kittens for Rhinotracheitis is important for kittens as mortality rate and eye damage is much higher in kittens than in adults. Vaccination of recovered kittens also helps prevent the virus from becoming active in the carrier state. All kittens and cats will come in contact with FHV-1 during their lifetime so vaccinating is essential for protection.

How Does L-Lysine Help Cats?

Because Herpes is so common, breeders supplement kittens with L-lysine, such as Viralys^® gel or powder and Enisyl-F^® paste, to prevent Herpes viral issues while they go through the vaccine series. Once the series is complete, the vaccine immunity will protect a cat if it is exposed to the virus.

Some chronic carriers shed with no issues, but others will show respiratory signs several times a year.

What Can I Give My Cat for Feline Herpes?

Cats with respiratory issues cannot smell food and thus will not eat. Cats with fevers also will not eat. Flushing their nose with saline drops, coating the nasal passages with vaseline and using salmon oil on food to increase the smell is great help. Older cats often start eating once this is done, making recovery likely. Kittens may need to be tube fed as they seem to be affected centrally and have no appetite when fighting Rhinotracheitis. Your veterinarian can prescribe medications such as Mirtaz and Allura can serve as appetite stimulants.

How to Support Recovery from Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis

Caring for a kitten recovering from Feline Herpesvirus requires attentive nursing and appropriate antibiotic treatment, which can greatly improve the chances of a full recovery.

If you have any questions about feline herpesvirus (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis) or need guidance on treatment and prevention, don’t hesitate to contact our knowledgeable Animal Care Specialists at 800.786.4751. We’re here to help keep your cats healthy and thriving.

Find the Best Vaccines for Your Cat with Revival’s Vaccine Finder

Protecting your cat from contagious diseases starts with choosing the right vaccine. Revival’s Vaccine Finder is an easy-to-use tool that helps you locate the best vaccines for your cat based on their lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for protection against Feline Herpesvirus, Feline Calicivirus, or other common feline illnesses, Revival’s Vaccine Finder connects you with trusted suppliers nearby. Keep your cat healthy and safe by using Revival’s Vaccine Finder to find the most effective vaccines tailored to their needs.