Feline Herpesvirus Flashcards
What is this also called?
Feline Viral rhinotracheitis
What type of herpesvirus is it?
Alpha
Why does the classification of herpesvirus matter?
Because these establish latent infections in mammals and they replicate in the neural tissue from tonsillar epithelium
Where does the source come from?
Acutely infected cats or latent cats that are undergoing reactivation. Comes from ocular and nasal secretions as well as saliva
How long after exposure does it take for signs to appear?
2-5 days
What are the signs?
Fever, anorexia, depression, sneezing, conjunctivitis, corneal infection
What are the two major infections it causes?
Acute respiratory tract disease and ocular disease
Who is at the most risk and how long until they recover?
Young cats, takes 10-14 days for recovery. Most cats chronically shed for a long time
What happens if this is a chronic disease?
Leads to chronic ulceration and inflammation, will see chronic stromal keratitis
How do you detect the virus?
RT-PCR on ocular or nasal swab samples
How do you stop this and how prevalent is it?
Disinfectants, contagious, can given MLV or killed but this does not prevent infection or reoccurence
How do you treat this?
Use supportive therapy, no drugs are available
