27/05/2025
🐾 URGENT AWARENESS: Feline Viral Infections on the Rise 🐾
Over the past few weeks, our veterinary team has been battling a surge in feline viral infections. We have experienced a surge in cases, with the number of confined patients reaching over 20 cats infected with serious viral illnesses such as Feline Panleukopenia virus (FPV), Feline Herpes Virus (FHV) Feline Corona virus (FCov) and Feline Calicivirus (FCV) among others.
While we are relieved to report that many of them are now on the road to recovery, some patients sadly did not survive — especially those with weak or no immunity against these dangerous viruses.
We’re sharing this with you not to alarm, but to educate and help prevent the further spread of these life-threatening diseases.
🧬 What Are Feline Viral Infections?
Feline viral infections are highly contagious diseases that affect cats of all ages, especially kittens, unvaccinated cats, and those with weak immune systems. The most common viruses we see include:
🔹 Feline Panleukopenia Virus (FPV) – a deadly virus causing vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and sudden death, especially in kittens.
🔹 Feline Calicivirus (FCV) – affects the respiratory tract, causes ulcers in the mouth, sneezing, and eye discharge.
🔹 Feline Herpesvirus (FHV-1) – another cause of respiratory disease, conjunctivitis, and nasal discharge.
🔹 Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) – suppresses the immune system, making cats vulnerable to other infections.
🔹 Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) – weakens the immune system and can cause cancer or anemia.
🦠 How Do Cats Get Infected?
Cats can easily acquire these viruses through:
🐾 Direct contact with an infected cat (especially in colonies, shelters, or multi-cat homes)
🐾 Sharing food and water bowls or litter boxes
🐾 Grooming each other or being groomed by an infected mother
🐾 Exposure to contaminated surfaces, cages, or hands of people who have handled infected cats
🐾 Bites and scratches, especially in the case of FIV
Even indoor cats can get infected if humans unknowingly carry the virus home on their clothes or hands.
⚕️ How We Treat Infected Cats
Unfortunately, there is no cure for viral infections—treatment is supportive, meaning we manage the symptoms and help the body fight the infection. Treatment may include:
💧 IV fluids to prevent dehydration
🍲 Nutritional support for cats not eating
💊 Antibiotics to prevent secondary bacterial infections
🌡️ Temperature regulation and isolation to avoid spreading the virus
😷 Close monitoring in the clinic for complications
Recovery can take days to weeks, and some cats may have lifelong immunity issues after infection. However, early treatment gives the best chance of survival.
🛡️ Prevention Is Key: What You Can Do❓
✅ Vaccinate your cat regularly — core vaccines protect against the most common and deadly viruses like FPV, FCV, and FHV.
✅ Avoid contact with stray or sick cats, especially if your cat isn’t fully vaccinated.
✅ Quarantine new pets for at least 14 days before introducing them to your household.
✅ Disinfect regularly if you care for multiple cats, especially litter boxes, food bowls, and bedding.
✅ Keep indoor cats safe indoors — this reduces exposure to infected animals or contaminated surfaces.
✅ Schedule routine vet visits, even if your cat appears healthy.
While it’s been a tough time for our staff and pet parents alike, we’re proud to report that many of our in-patients are now home and continuing to recover well. These cats will be coming back for follow-up checkups in 3–4 weeks to ensure full recovery and immunity support.
Sadly, we also experienced heartbreaking losses. These remind us just how dangerous and fast-acting these viruses can be — and how crucial prevention really is.
If you notice any of the following signs, do not delay seeking veterinary care:
- Sudden loss of appetite
- Lethargy or hiding
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Sneezing or nasal discharge
- Mouth ulcers or eye infections
📞 Reach out to us immediately. Early care can make all the difference.
Together, let’s protect our feline companions from preventable diseases.
