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Feline Herpesvirus (FHV-1)
Infectious DiseaseVirusFelineNew
Key Points
  • Feline herpesvirus (FHV-1) is a highly contagious viral disease in cats
  • FHV-1 is a key component of the feline upper respiratory disease complex (URDC)
  • It typically causes upper respiratory signs (e.g. sneezing, nasal discharge) as well as conjunctivitis and corneal ulcers
    • Dendritic ulcers are pathognomonic for FHV-1
  • The virus establishes latency in neurons and can recrudesce throughout the cat’s life, especially during periods of stress or immunosuppression
  • PCR is most commonly used for definitive diagnosis
  • There is no cure for FHV-1 but antiviral therapies and supportive care can reduce the duration and severity of clinical signs
  • FHV-1 is a CORE vaccine for cats but vaccination only reduces disease severity, it can’t prevent infection entirely
Differential Diagnoses
  1. Feline calicivirus (FCV)
  2. Feline chlamydiosis (C. felis)
  3. Mycoplasma felis
  4. Feline bordetellosis (B. bronchiseptica)
Overview
Aetiology
Clinical Signs
Diagnosis
Treatment
Prevention
Resources
Overview

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Aetiology

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Clinical Signs

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Diagnosis

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Treatment

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Prevention

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Resources

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Educational content only. This factsheet is for general veterinary education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Not for use in an emergency — contact a veterinarian or emergency service. Full disclaimer →