Fci

Feline Calicivirus Infection
Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Fever, oral ulcers, respiratory symptoms
Complications	Pneumonia, chronic stomatitis
Onset
Duration
Types	N/A
Causes	Feline calicivirus
Risks	Close contact with infected cats
Diagnosis	Clinical signs, PCR testing
Differential diagnosis	N/A
Prevention	Vaccination
Treatment	Supportive care, antiviral drugs
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	N/A
Frequency	N/A
Deaths	N/A

Feline Calicivirus Infection (FCI) is a common viral infection in cats caused by the Feline calicivirus (FCV). It is a significant cause of upper respiratory infections and oral disease in cats worldwide.

Virology

Feline calicivirus is a member of the Caliciviridae family. It is a non-enveloped, single-stranded RNA virus with a positive-sense genome. The virus is highly variable, with numerous strains that can differ significantly in virulence and clinical presentation.

Transmission

FCV is primarily transmitted through direct contact with infected cats or through contact with contaminated objects such as food bowls, litter boxes, and bedding. The virus can also be spread via aerosol droplets from sneezing cats. Infected cats can shed the virus in their saliva, nasal secretions, and urine.

Clinical Signs

The clinical signs of FCI can vary depending on the strain of the virus and the immune status of the cat. Common symptoms include:

• Fever
• Oral ulcers
• Sneezing
• Nasal discharge
• Conjunctivitis
• Lethargy
• Anorexia

In some cases, the infection can lead to more severe conditions such as pneumonia or chronic stomatitis.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of FCI is typically based on clinical signs and history. Laboratory tests such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) can be used to detect the presence of FCV in samples from the cat's mouth or nasal passages.

Treatment

There is no specific antiviral treatment for FCI. Management is primarily supportive and may include:

• Ensuring adequate hydration
• Providing nutritional support
• Administering antibiotics to prevent secondary bacterial infections
• Using pain management for oral ulcers

In severe cases, hospitalization and intensive care may be required.

Prevention

Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent FCI. The FCV vaccine is typically included in the core feline vaccination schedule. It is important to maintain good hygiene and minimize stress in multi-cat environments to reduce the risk of transmission.

Prognosis

The prognosis for cats with FCI is generally good, especially in mild cases. However, some cats may develop chronic conditions or become carriers of the virus, shedding it intermittently.

Epidemiology

FCI is widespread among domestic cats and can also affect wild felids. Outbreaks are more common in environments where cats are housed together, such as shelters and catteries.

See Also

• Feline viral rhinotracheitis
• Feline panleukopenia
• Feline immunodeficiency virus

External Links

• [Link to veterinary resources]