Sneezing Cat. Vet Explains the Kitty Sneeze.

Hi Everyone!

My name is Dan, and I am a veterinarian. Today I will be talking about one of the most common causes of the cat sneeze. Viral infections in the cat can cause a lot of sneezing. The most common virus to cause the sneezing is the herpes virus.

Feline herpesvirus, also known as feline viral rhinotracheitis (FVR), is a common viral infection in cats. It is one of the leading causes of upper respiratory infections in felines. Feline herpesvirus is caused by the feline herpesvirus type 1 (FHV-1) and is highly contagious among cats. Here are some key points about feline herpesvirus:

Transmission: Cats can contract the virus through direct contact with an infected cat, contaminated objects, or through respiratory secretions (e.g., sneezing or coughing). Kittens are particularly susceptible, and the virus can spread rapidly in multi-cat environments like shelters.

Symptoms: Cats infected with feline herpesvirus may show a range of symptoms, including sneezing, nasal discharge, watery eyes, conjunctivitis (inflammation of the eye), fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, and oral ulcers. The virus can also cause respiratory distress in severe cases.

Carrier state: Some cats can become lifelong carriers of feline herpesvirus, even if they show no symptoms. These carrier cats can intermittently shed the virus, potentially infecting other cats.

Diagnosis: A veterinarian can diagnose feline herpesvirus based on clinical signs and sometimes through laboratory tests, such as PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) testing.

Treatment: There is no cure for feline herpesvirus, but supportive care can help manage the symptoms. Treatment may include antiviral medications to reduce viral replication, antibiotics for secondary bacterial infections, and eye drops to alleviate eye-related symptoms. It's essential to keep the cat comfortable, well-hydrated, and provide an stress-free environment.

Prevention: Vaccination is an essential preventive measure against feline herpesvirus. Vaccinations can help reduce the severity and incidence of the infection, especially in high-risk environments. Regular veterinary check-ups and good hygiene practices can also minimize the risk of transmission.

If you suspect that your cat may have feline herpesvirus or is showing any concerning symptoms, it's crucial to seek prompt veterinary attention. A veterinarian can provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment to help your cat recover and manage the infection effectively.

Disclaimer: Always consult your veterinarian regarding all of your cat's health concerns or questions. This video is just for educational purposes and does not replace veterinary care.

Dr. Dan's Amazon Store:

https://www.amazon.com/shop/danthevet...

Sneezing in cats can be caused by various factors, including viral infections like feline herpesvirus or feline calicivirus, allergies, irritants, or foreign objects in the nasal passages. Your vet will be able to assess your cat's condition, make a proper diagnosis, and recommend the appropriate treatment or management plan.