What Is Feline Calcivirus Really all About?
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Feline Calcivirus Infection (FCI) |
What Is Calcivirus Infection?
Simply, it is a contagious
viral infection affects upper respiratory tract or oral tract of cats.
How to know if your cat has calcivirus infection?
The virus affects the upper
respiratory tract causing several respiratory symptoms as:
- Congestion of the nasal.
- Sneezing repeated and severe.
- Nasal discharge (Color ranges
from clear, green or yellow).
The Virus also affects the
upper oral tract causing:
- Drooling of saliva.
- Ulcers in the mouth tongue
and gums.
- Conjunctivitis.
Other Common symptoms as:
- Fever.
-Anorexia.
-Lameness, especially in young
kittens (Not in all cases).
How Can My Cat get the Infection with Calcivirus?
- First Calcivirus is very
contagious disease and direct contac can transmit the infection.
- Secretions from infected cats.
Diagnosis of Calcivirus infection in Cats:
- From clinical Signs (Respiratory
signs, ulcers and conjunctivitis).
- Sample from nose or mouth and
examination in the lab by PCR.
- X-Ray.
Treatment of calcivirus infection in Cats:
1- Symptomatic treatment.
2- Antibiotics to avoid
secondary bacterial infections.
3- Supportive treatment (Intravenous
solutions and tonics)
4- Eye drops for the eye
Always consult your
veterinarian before using any drugs.
Do not administer any medicines unless under vet supervision.
Prevention of Calcivirus in Cats:
1- By Vaccinations (Core vaccines)
2- Avoid contact with strange Cats.
3- Isolation of sick cats.
4- Follow healthy procedures
and measurement.
Finally, following healthy and sanitary measurement and vaccination are the best way to prevent infection and make your pets live very healthy life.
Always consult your vet
if your cat shows signs of respiratory distress.
Treatment of viral infections in animals only depends on preventing bacterial infections and supportive care for preventing dehydration of the animal.
