Causes of Feline Rhinotracheitis
Upper respiratory tract infections in cats are common and primarily caused by feline herpesvirus and feline calicivirus. Other pathogens like Chlamydophila felis, Bordetella bronchiseptica, and Mycoplasma can also contribute. A PCR test can accurately identify the specific pathogen responsible for feline rhinotracheitis.
Transmission of the Disease
Feline rhinotracheitis spreads through direct contact with an infected cat. Contaminated droplets from sneezing or coughing remain airborne, infecting other cats. Some infected cats become chronic carriers, and stressful situations can reactivate the virus, causing symptoms to reappear and increasing the risk of spreading infection.
Clinical Signs of Feline Rhinotracheitis
Symptoms vary based on the causative agent but commonly include:
- Fever
- Sneezing
- Clear or thick nasal discharge
- Conjunctivitis (eye inflammation)
Feline herpesvirus may cause corneal ulcers, while calicivirus typically leads to oral ulcers and polyarthritis. Bordetella bronchiseptica often triggers coughing episodes and pneumonia, whereas Chlamydophila felis primarily causes significant conjunctivitis.
Severe nasal turbinate damage may occur, resulting in chronic sinusitis that persists even after the initial infection resolves.
Treatment for Feline Rhinotracheitis
As the infection is usually self-limiting, treatment focuses on supportive care and symptom management.
Supportive Care
- Hydration and nutrition: Ensure adequate food and water intake, as prolonged dehydration or loss of appetite worsens the condition.
- Cleaning secretions: Regularly clean nasal and ocular discharges using damp compresses.
- Conjunctivitis treatment: Antibiotic eye drops will be prescribed for eye inflammation.
- Humidifying air: Using a humidifier can help liquefy mucus and ease breathing.
- Nasal congestion: Saline nasal drops can help, and a veterinarian may prescribe oral decongestants for significant congestion.
Medical Treatment
- Antibiotics: Administered if secondary bacterial infections develop, particularly with severe clinical signs.
- Lysine: Frequently recommended to limit herpesvirus replication; effective when given twice daily for at least one month.
Prevention and Vaccination Against Feline Rhinotracheitis
Vaccination significantly reduces symptom severity by stimulating the immune response, although it does not completely prevent infection.
Vaccination Schedule
- Kittens: Vaccinations at 2, 3, and 4 months of age, with a booster at 1 year.
- Adult cats: Boosters annually or every three years depending on exposure and veterinarian recommendations.
Limiting contact with potentially infected cats further reduces contamination risks.
If your cat displays signs of feline rhinotracheitis or you seek further preventive advice, consult your veterinarian for accurate diagnosis and personalized care.
