Calicivirus Infection in Cats

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                      General Information



Feline calicivirus is a virus that causes mild to serious

respiratory illness.  Cats become infected by inhaling or

swallowing the virus, and signs of illness may develop within

2-10 days of exposure.  Early signs include runny eyes and nose,

sneezing, depression and poor appetite.  Ulcers may develop on

the tongue and hard palate, and most infected cats drool

heavily.  Illness lasts from 1 to 4 weeks.  Though most cats

recover, fatalities do occur.  Young kittens are most likely to

be severely affected.  Some cats that recover from the initial

disease may continue to shed the virus for weeks or even years.

A vaccine is available for prevention of calicivirus infection.



                 Important Points in Treatment



1.  Drugs cannot eliminate calicivirus.  Treatment is designed to

    prevent bacterial infections (especially pneumonia), relieve

    signs, and maintain hydration and nutrition.



2.  Severely affected cats and kittens must be treated in the

    hospital, where intravenous fluids can be given to maintain

    hydration and provide nutrition.



3.  The virus is hardy and may survive outside the cat on dishes,

    pans, etc, for 8-10 days.



4.  Home treatment:



    * Give all the medication as directed.  Call the doctor if you

    cannot medicate your cat.



    * Wipe away all discharges from the nose and eyes several times

    daily.



5.  Diet:



    * Feed:





    * Water:  Maintaining adequate hydration is extremely important.

    If your cat will not drink on its own, give several forced

    drinks with a syringe, meat baster or bulb syringe.  Give

    ___________________ every ____ hours.



    * Rest:  Enforce rest.  Do not encourage play or let children

    handle the ill pet.



       Notify the Doctor if Any of the Following Occur:



    * Your cat's condition worsens.



    * Your cat refuses to eat or drink.



    * Your cat develops new signs.



    * Your cat relapses after apparent recovery.