Feline Calicivirus (FCV): What Cat Owners Need to Know

Feline Calicivirus (FCV) is a highly contagious virus that affects a cat’s respiratory system, mouth, and joints. It is one of the major causes of feline flu and can be especially severe in kittens, elderly cats, and those with weakened immune systems. In this blog, we’ll cover the symptoms, transmission, treatment, and prevention of FCV.

What is Feline Calicivirus (FCV)?

FCV is a viral infection that primarily affects the respiratory tract but can also cause painful ulcers in the mouth and, in severe cases, lead to life-threatening complications. The virus spreads easily in multi-cat environments, such as shelters and breeding catteries.

Symptoms of FCV

FCV symptoms can vary in severity but often include:

• Sneezing and nasal discharge

• Eye discharge and conjunctivitis

• Ulcers on the tongue, gums, or lips (causing difficulty eating)

• Excessive drooling

• Lethargy and fever

• Loss of appetite

• Limping (due to joint inflammation in some cases)

Severe strains of FCV can cause pneumonia, severe mouth pain, and even organ failure, though these cases are rare.

How is FCV Spread?

FCV spreads through direct contact with infected cats, saliva, eye and nasal discharge, or contaminated objects like food bowls, litter trays, and bedding. The virus can survive in the environment for up to a month, making it difficult to control without strict hygiene measures.

Treatment for FCV

There is no direct cure for FCV, but supportive care helps affected cats recover. Treatment may include:

• Antibiotics to treat secondary bacterial infections

• Pain relief for ulcers and joint pain

• Fluids and nutrition support (especially if the cat is not eating)

• Steam therapy or nebulisation to ease breathing difficulties

• Antiviral medications in severe cases

Most cats recover in 1-3 weeks, but some may become chronic carriers, shedding the virus without showing symptoms.

Preventing FCV

To reduce the risk of FCV:

• Vaccinate your cat – The F3 or FVRCP vaccine includes FCV protection.

• Maintain strict hygiene – Clean food bowls, litter trays, and bedding regularly.

• Quarantine new cats – If introducing a new cat, keep them isolated for at least two weeks to monitor for symptoms.

• Reduce stress – A low-stress environment supports immune health.

When to See a Vet

If your cat shows difficulty eating, severe mouth ulcers, or breathing problems, seek veterinary care immediately. Young kittens, elderly cats, and immunocompromised cats are at the highest risk of complications.

At Snuffles, we prioritise the health of our Persian and exotic cats through proper vaccination, hygiene, and genetic screening. If you have concerns about feline viruses or cat health, visit our website for more information: Snuffles Persians & Exotics.