Feline rhinotracheitis (flu): symptoms and treatment

Rhinotracheitis is one of the most common and dangerous upper respiratory tract infections in cats cat flu. This disease can affect cats of any age, but younger animals and those with weaker immune systems are most affected.

Since rhinotracheitis spreads very quickly, it is important to know the first symptoms, possible complications, treatment and prevention methods. Below, we’ll cover everything every cat owner needs to know.

What is feline rhinotracheitis?

Rhinotracheitis (feline influenza) is an upper respiratory tract infection caused most commonly by the feline herpes virus (FHV-1). This cat disease It damages your cat’s or cat’s nose, throat, eyes and can cause serious breathing problems.¹

Other infectious agents contributing to the pathological complex can be:

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• Calicivirus (FCV);
• Chlamydia felis;
• Mycoplasma felis

A combination of these agents can cause mild to moderate rhinotracheitis or progress to a dangerous long-term condition.

Important: the virus can remain in the body for life and reactivate in stressful situations.ž

Symptoms of Rhinotracheitis in Cats

The main signs of rhinotracheitis are respiratory and ocular symptoms. Milder cases last a few days, but more severe cases can last weeks or cause complications.

The main symptoms of rhinotracheitis

In milder cases, the following symptoms occur:

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• Frequent sneezing;
• Runny nose (serous or purulent);
• Watery eyes, conjunctivitis;
• Fever;
• Loss of appetite;
• Abundant salivation;
• Cough, difficulty breathing;
• Mouth or tongue ulcers (characteristics of calicivirus);
• Keratitis or eye ulcers (characteristic of the herpes virus).

Serious symptoms and possible complications

Untreated or advanced rhinotracheitis can cause more serious clinical signs:

• Lethargy;
• Respiratory distress;
• Dehydration;
• Pneumonia;
• Persistent eye problems or scarring.

Symptoms can vary greatly depending on the causative agent, and viral rhinotracheitis in cats often presents with mixed infections, so the signs are intertwined. (source: Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, 2009 m.)

Rhinotracheitis: treatment, how to help the cat recover?

Treatment of rhinotracheitis is usually complex and combines medications, supportive therapy and stress reduction measures. Proper treatment of feline rhinotracheitis allows cats to recover faster and reduces the risk of complications.

Veterinary care and prescribed medications

In most cases, a veterinary visit and medical treatment is necessary. Depending on the severity of the disease and the causative agent, the following may apply:

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• Antibiotics (if a bacterial infection contributes);
• Antiviral ointments or eye drops;
• Immunostimulant and L-lysine;
• Anti-inflammatory drugs facilitate breathing;
• Fluid therapyif the cat does not drink or eat.

Supportive treatment at home

In order for the treatment of infectious rhinotracheitis in cats to be effective, it is important:

• Clean nasal and eye secretions;
• Humidify the rooms or carry out steam inhalations;
• Offer warm, scented food (if the nose is damaged, cats can no longer smell);
• Provide peace of mind and reduce stress.

Some cats require tube feeding if food is refused.

How to protect a cat from rhinotracheitis – cat flu?

The best prevention is vaccinations and hygiene checks. Most infections cannot be completely prevented, but the risk and severity of the disease can be greatly reduced.

Preventive measures:

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• Regular vaccinations are the main and most effective means of protecting cats from viral diseases;
• Separation from sick cats;
• Regular ventilation of the rooms;
• Disinfection of surfaces;
• Stress reduction (stable routine, safe environment).

Vaccines do not provide 100% protection, but they significantly reduce the severity of symptoms.

When to go to the vet?

Rhinotracheitis in cats and cats can progress very quickly, so it is important to consult a veterinarian in time. You need to contact specialists if you notice at least one of the following symptoms:

• Cat stops eating for >24 hours;
• Difficulty breathing;
• Purulent discharge from the eyes or nose;
• Fever;
• Strong apathy;
• Mouth ulcers that prevent the animal from eating;
• Ksigns that feline rhinotracheitis is progressing.

In young kittens and older cats, complications develop much more quickly: in this case the delay is especially dangerous.

Why is it important to apply as soon as possible?

If you notice that your cat may be showing symptoms of rhinotracheitis, don’t wait for the condition to get worse. This disease progresses rapidly, so early treatment makes a difference. Don’t hesitate: register your pet for a consultation at the Begemots veterinary clinic in Vilnius or Širvintos.

Our veterinarians will perform a thorough examination, assess the risks and tailor the most effective treatment plan for your cat, ensuring a faster and safer recovery. Take care of hygiene, pay attention to the symptoms and we will take care of all the other steps.

Frequently asked questions

Sources:

1. Barlough JE, Gillespie JH, Scott FW, Timoney JF. Microbiology and infectious diseases of domestic animals by Hagan and Bruner. Cornell University Press, 1988.
2. Thiry E, Addie D, Beauty S, Baralon C, Egberink H, Frymus T, et al. Feline herpesvirus infection. ABCD guidelines on prevention and management. Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery2009.