Also known as: Katzenschnupfen (Herpes)
Die feline virale Rhinotracheitis wird durch das feline Herpesvirus-1 (FHV-1) verursacht und ist eine der Hauptursachen oberer Atemwegs- und Augenerkrankungen bei Katzen. Sie verbreitet sich leicht in Tierheimen, Katzenzuchten und Mehrkatzenhaushalten. Wie andere Herpesviren etabliert es eine lebenslange Latenz mit wiederkehrenden Schüben bei Stress. Eine Augenbeteiligung, einschließlich Hornhautgeschwüren, ist ein Kennzeichen.
FHV-1 is one of the main agents of feline upper respiratory disease, often grouped colloquially with calicivirus as 'cat flu'. Infection persists for life with periodic recurrences.
The virus spreads through direct contact, sneezed droplets, and shared bowls or bedding. Stress, such as boarding or a new cat, can reactivate latent virus and cause shedding.
Typical signs include sneezing, nasal and eye discharge, conjunctivitis, fever, and reduced appetite. Corneal ulcers and chronic rhinitis can develop, and kittens may be severely affected.
Diagnosis is often clinical; PCR on conjunctival or oropharyngeal swabs can confirm the virus when needed.
Care is largely supportive: hydration, nutrition, cleaning discharge, and treating secondary bacterial infection. Antiviral eye drops or oral antivirals and L-lysine may help severe or ocular cases.
Core vaccination reduces severity, and reducing stress and crowding limits flare-ups and spread. Isolating sick cats protects others.
This content is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you are worried about your pet, contact your veterinarian.
