By Dial A Vet Veterinary Team
Last updated: 5 November 2026
A cat with feline viral rhinotracheitis can go from a few sneezes to red, weepy eyes, a blocked nose and no interest in food within days. Most cats recover, but kittens, older cats and cats with weak immune systems can become very unwell, and the virus can damage the eyes. Knowing the signs, and when to get help, makes a real difference.
Key takeaways
- Feline viral rhinotracheitis (FVR) is caused by feline herpesvirus (FHV-1), one of the two main cat flu viruses.
- International Cat Care (iCatCare) estimates more than 90% of upper respiratory infections in cats involve FHV, feline calicivirus (FCV) or both.
- Signs include sneezing, eye and nose discharge, sore throat, fever and loss of appetite.
- FHV can cause painful corneal ulcers, so any squinting or cloudy eye needs prompt vet care.
- Most infected cats become lifelong carriers, and stress can trigger flare-ups.
- Vaccination does not always prevent infection, but greatly reduces how severe it is.
What causes FVR
iCatCare describes FHV as a highly contagious virus found in cats worldwide. It mainly causes upper respiratory infection, but it can also affect the eyes and, rarely, the skin. Secondary bacterial infections are common and can make cats sicker. The other major cat flu virus is calicivirus, covered in our guide to feline calicivirus.
Cats at higher risk, according to iCatCare, include:
- kittens
- unvaccinated cats
- cats living in groups, such as catteries, shelters and colonies
- older cats and cats with weakened immune systems, for example cats with FIV or FeLV
- cats under stress
Signs to watch for
Upper respiratory signs listed by iCatCare include:
- sneezing
- discharge from the eyes and nose
- drooling
- sore throat
- lethargy
- loss of appetite
- fever
- coughing
Eye signs can include conjunctivitis, frequent blinking, redness around the eyes and corneal ulcers. iCatCare notes FHV can cause multiple small branching ulcers on the surface of the eye, called dendritic keratitis. Skin problems are rare, but can include inflammation, scabs and hair loss, usually around the nose and mouth.
iCatCare notes signs can last a few days to a few weeks, and a cat will keep shedding the virus for around three weeks.
How it spreads
FHV passes between cats through:
- direct contact with saliva or eye and nose discharge
- breathing in sneeze droplets
- shared food bowls and litter trays
- contaminated bedding and grooming equipment
iCatCare notes the virus is fragile and is likely to survive in the environment for only 1 to 2 days, so good cleaning helps.
Carrier cats and flare-ups
The virus hides in nerve cells, so most infected cats become lifelong carriers. iCatCare explains many carriers never shed significant amounts of virus, but some shed it again during stress, illness or treatment with immune-suppressing medicines, sometimes with mild signs. A new pet, a house move, boarding or giving birth can all be triggers. Keeping life calm and predictable for a known carrier is worth the effort.
Diagnosis and treatment
Your vet will often make a working diagnosis from the typical signs. iCatCare notes that if a specific diagnosis is needed, eye or throat swabs can be sent to a laboratory.
Treatment focuses on comfort and support. iCatCare describes:
- antibiotics if there is a secondary bacterial infection
- pain relief for sore throats and eyes
- steam inhalation or nebulisation for severe nasal congestion
- eye lubrication and, sometimes, antiviral eye drops
- antiviral medicines such as famciclovir in some cases
- a drip and feeding support in hospital for severe cases
At home, gently clean away discharge with damp cotton wool. Because a blocked nose dulls the sense of smell, iCatCare suggests soft, strong-smelling foods warmed slightly to tempt a poor appetite. If your cat will not eat, contact your vet, as poor nutrition slows recovery. Our guide to cat flu has more nursing tips.
Prevention
iCatCare recommends FHV vaccination for all cats. Kittens usually have two or three injections starting at around 8 weeks of age, then a booster between 6 months and one year old, followed by boosters every 1 to 3 years depending on risk. Read more in our guide to vaccinating cats.
Other steps that help:
- keep a sick cat away from other cats, with separate bowls, litter trays and bedding
- wash hands after handling a sick cat
- reduce stress for cats known to carry the virus
When is it urgent?
See your local vet or nearest emergency vet clinic straight away if your cat:
- is breathing with an open mouth or struggling to breathe
- is squinting, has a cloudy eye or seems to have a painful eye
- has stopped eating or drinking
- is a young kitten with cat flu signs
- is very lethargic or hiding
Book a vet visit for milder signs that are not improving, or if your cat is old or has another health problem.
FAQ
Can my cat give FVR to my dog?
FHV-1 is a cat virus and causes disease in cats. If your dog has respiratory signs, it needs its own vet check.
My cat is vaccinated. How did it get cat flu?
iCatCare notes vaccination does not always prevent infection, but greatly reduces severity. Vaccinated cats usually have milder disease.
Will my cat have FVR forever?
Most cats carry the virus for life, but many never show signs again. Some have mild flare-ups during stressful times.
How long is my cat contagious?
iCatCare notes cats shed the virus for around three weeks after infection, and carriers may shed it again later.
Talk with a vet
If your cat has mild cat flu signs and you want help deciding what to do next, Dial A Vet's real vets and vet nurses can assess your cat on a video consult and tell you whether a clinic visit is needed. Breathing difficulty, a painful eye or a cat that has stopped eating needs your local vet or nearest emergency vet clinic. Dial A Vet consults cover dogs and cats. Book a video consult with Dial A Vet.
References
- International Cat Care. Feline herpesvirus (FHV).
- International Cat Care. Cat flu - upper respiratory infection.
Disclaimer: Educational only. This page does not replace an examination or advice from your own veterinarian. If you are worried about your pet right now, contact your local vet or nearest emergency animal hospital.