Feline herpesvirus causes, symptoms and prevention

Feline herpesvirus is highly contagious, but there are ways to help your cat stay safe

Cat showing symptoms of feline herpesvirus, a common viral infection in cats, with eye discharge, highlighting the importance of early detection and treatment for feline herpes.

Overview

What is feline herpesvirus?

Feline herpesvirus (FHV-1) causes upper respiratory infections (flu) and ocular (eye) disease in cats. It can lead to multiple symptoms including, conjunctivitis, a sore throat, sneezing and coughing. Occasionally, it can cause skin disease.

It’s highly contagious and can spread quickly. This happens when a cat who isn’t carrying the virus comes into contact with an infected cat. Often this might be by licking their food bowl, sharing a litter tray, or brushing against their owner’s clothes.

What are the feline herpesvirus symptoms?

How is feline herpesvirus spread?

How is feline herpesvirus diagnosed?

Feline herpesvirus treatment

How can cat herpes be prevented?

Is feline herpesvirus fatal?

Can humans catch herpesvirus from cats?

Medically reviewed by Lizzie Youens BSc(Hons) BVSc MRCVS

Published on 01/12/2022 • Reviewed on 21/10/2024