Cats, even those kept indoors, can contract viral diseases that can significantly impact their health and longevity. Viral infections can affect cats of all ages, even those with healthy immune systems. However, you can safeguard your whiskered friend’s health by learning about these diseases and taking measures to prevent your cat from contracting these viruses. Our Peak City Veterinary Hospital team details prevalent feline viral diseases and how to protect your cat from their harmful consequences.

Common feline viral diseases

As a cat owner, you are aware of your furry companion’s health and recognize illness signs when they are unwell. Infectious diseases, including those caused by viruses, are often preventable. However, despite this, the following viral diseases persistently threaten the feline population: 

  • Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) — FIV is a lentivirus that affects cats and is similar to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). FIV compromises the immune system, making cats susceptible to other infections and diseases. Transmission typically occurs through bite wounds, and physical signs can sometimes take years to manifest, including chronic illnesses, weight loss, and lethargy. This feline virus has no cure, but supportive veterinary care can help manage the condition and its subsequent effects. 
  • Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) — FeLV is a retrovirus that is a leading cause of cat illness and death. The virus is transmitted through saliva and nasal secretions, often after grooming or sustaining bite wounds. FeLV can cause various cancers, anemia, and immune suppression. 
  • Feline panleukopenia virus (FPV) — Also known as feline distemper, FPV is a highly contagious parvovirus that causes severe gastrointestinal (GI) illness, dehydration, and often death, particularly in young kittens. A cat contracts FPV by coming in contact with an infected feline’s bodily fluid or feces, or by spending time in a contaminated environment. 
  • Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) — FIP, a result of a feline coronavirus (FCoV) mutation, primarily affects young cats and those in multi-cat environments such as animal shelters. The disease has two forms: effusive (wet), which causes fluid accumulation in the abdomen or chest, and non-effusive (dry), which causes organ granulomas. FIP is often life-threatening.
  • Feline herpesvirus (FHV) — FHV, or feline viral rhinotracheitis, is a major upper respiratory infection cause in cats. This virus is spread through direct contact with an infected cat or contaminated objects. Cats’ FHV signs include sneezing, nasal discharge, conjunctivitis, and oral ulcers. While not usually fatal, this viral infection can cause chronic issues and recurrent infections.
  • Feline calicivirus (FCV) — FCV is similar to herpesvirus in that it causes upper respiratory issues such as sneezing and eye discharge. Other FCV signs include fever, lack of appetite, and mouth and gum ulcers. This virus is spread through secretions, often through the droplets a cat expels when they sneeze. Because FCV survives in the environment, cats can contract the illness by sharing bedding and grooming tools. 

Feline viral disease prevention

While these viral infections can make your cat extremely ill, the positive news is most viral diseases are preventable through vaccination. Core vaccines administered by our Peak City Veterinary Hospital team are the most effective method for preventing many viral and other infectious diseases from harming your furry friend. Always schedule your cat’s annual wellness exams, so we can ensure they are disease-free and up-to-date on their vaccines. For incurable diseases, such as FIV and FeLV, testing and early detection are crucial for managing an infected cat’s health and preventing the virus from spreading to other household cats. 

Feline viral diseases can significantly affect your cat’s health, but many of these infectious diseases can be effectively managed or prevented when you take proactive measures. Vaccinations, regular veterinary care, and maintaining a clean, stress-free environment are critical to safeguarding your feline friend’s health. By staying informed and vigilant, you can ensure your whiskered companion leads a healthy, happy life. To schedule your cat’s wellness exam, contact our Peak City Veterinary Hospital team.