What are the symptoms of a viral infection in cats?
Symptoms of Intestinal Viral Infection in Cats. Intestinal viral infections are primarily characterized by the presence of mild to severe diarrhea that is often watery and may be green or otherwise discolored.
Is it possible for a cat to get a virus?
A virus is a living organism smaller and more resistant than bacteria. Viruses are protected by a coating and can exist outside hosts. The severity of feline viral infections varies. Cats can have mild viral infections or develop a more serious disease which can be fatal.
Can a kitten be infected with FeLV during birth?
Kittens may become infected while still in the womb, during birth or during nursing. Not all cats exposed to FeLV become infected. About 40 percent of exposed cats have immune systems that destroy the invading virus.
Why are old cats more prone to bacterial infections?
Age also determines the propensity of bacterial infection in cats. While young felines have a better immunity against major bacterial infections, the youngest ones are more prone to infections because of the lack of major antibodies. Similarly, old cats with weaker immune systems have a decline in antibodies.
What kind of virus does my cat have?
Chlamydia and Mycoplasma are the two commonly diagnosed bacteria. Feline herpesvirus type 1 is often the viral culprit, but other viruses such as calicivirus can also play a role in eye infections.
How long is a cat infectious after getting the virus?
How long is a cat infectious after getting the virus? Once a cat is infected with FVR, they will usually show disease symptoms in 2-5 days (incubation period of the disease). The cat can infect other cats during this incubation period. In most cases, once symptoms appear the active infection will last about 10-20 days.
What happens to a kitten with a FCV infection?
FCV infection is often milder, with inapparent or less severe ocular signs, but FCV often causes ulceration of the tongue (and sometimes the palate or the lips). FCV may cause a transient arthritis (‘limping syndrome’), usually seen in young kittens, and in very young kittens can cause severe viral pneumonia.
When to take your cat to the vet for an upper respiratory infection?
It’s important to bring your cat to a veterinarian if you think she may be suffering from an upper respiratory infection. A brief exam by a veterinarian will help to determine if your cat requires medication, has a fever or is dehydrated.
