Friday, June 13, 2008

What Is Feline Herpes Virus Infection?

Feline Herpes Virus of FHV is one of the most common viruses infecting cats all around the world. The word "herpes" brings a shudder to many people as we immediately think of genital warts or cold sores in our human counterparts. Do not panic for your beloved cats as these feared disease conditions do not occur in the cat.

Instead, FHV is one of the two most common viral causes of the cat flu and conjunctivitis (eye infection) in our feline friends. Affected cats often present with sneezing, nasal discharge and can have concurrent conjunctivitis. The virus usually affects only one eye in the cat. Corneal ulcers may also be present in the affected eye. These clinical signs of a FHV infection can range from being very mild to very severe and may be self-limiting in some cats. The more severe clinical signs are often seen in the young and old cats with compromised immune systems.

Diagnosis of FHV cannot be confirmed through routine diagnostic tests like a blood test. The virus may be documented by testing conjunctival samples through complicated laboratory testing however these diagnostic tests are not available in some cities. Therefore diagnosis of a FHV infection in the cat is often one of a presumptive diagnosis based on history and clinical signs.

Read More On Related Topics:

  1. What Is Feline Herpes Virus Infection?
  2. Is There Any Cure For Feline Herpes Virus?
  3. What Are The Treatments For Feline Herpes Virus?
  4. What Can You Do If Your Cat Has Feline Herpes Virus?

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