Feline calicivirus, also known as FCV, is a common viral disease in cats that causes mild flu-like symptoms. Cats infected with the virus rarely suffer any serious complications. The condition can affect any breed of cat and occurs all over the world.

Causes

Feline calicivirus is caused by a virus. Your cat can become infected when he comes into contact with eye discharge, nose discharge, saliva, and feces from an infected cat. Calicivirus commonly occurs with other upper respiratory infections. These infections include chlamydiosis, rhinotracheitis, and feline herpes virus.

Symptoms

There are many different strains of feline calicivirus which can cause various symptoms. Common symptoms include arthritis, loss of appetite, and fever. Your cat may also develop sores filled with pus on his tongue, lips, or tip of the nose. More serious strains of feline calicivirus can even cause your cat to develop pneumonia.

Diagnosis

Your veterinarian has to base a diagnosis of feline calicivirus on your cat’s medical history and current symptoms. While some lab tests can help confirm a diagnosis, a blood test usually proves useless. If your cat has a severe strain of feline calicivirus, an x-ray can be used to detect pneumonia. Special proteins coupled with a fluorescent chemical can also help detect proteins that the cat’s immune system produces to fight off the calicivirus.

Treatment

If your cat has been diagnosed with feline calicivirus, he will usually be given antibiotics. These antibiotics won’t help get rid of calicivirus since it is a virus, but they will help prevent and treat secondary infections. They will also help your cat deal with any pain caused by arthritis. If the feline calicivirus brings about a case of pneumonia, your cat may need supplemental oxygen if he experiences difficulty breathing.

There are certain things you can do at home to make your cat more comfortable while affected by the feline calicivirus. If your cat develops sores in his mouth, you should feed him soft foods. You should also ensure that your cat has plenty of food and water. If possible, you should put your cat in a room with a humidifier.

Prevention

Most veterinarians suggest that you have your cat vaccinated against feline calicivirus. Your cat will likely be vaccinated against this virus at the same time he is vaccinated against the feline herpes virus. However, you should know that vaccination may not prevent infection, but it will prevent your cat from develop a serious case of the condition. Your cat will need booster shots every one to three years after the initial vaccination.