Introduction
Cat flu is a common upper respiratory infection in cats caused by the feline herpesvirus type-1 and feline calicivirus. It can affect cats of all ages but is most common in unvaccinated kittens and cats from shelters. The most common symptoms of cat flu include sneezing, discharge from the nose and eyes, fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, and mouth ulcers.
Understanding the mortality rate for cat flu is important because although most cats recover fully, cat flu can sometimes lead to potentially fatal secondary infections like pneumonia. Knowing the mortality rate helps cat owners understand the risks and determine if immediate veterinary care is required. It also guides veterinarians on appropriate treatment protocols and interventions to prevent severe complications.
Transmission
Cat flu is highly contagious and spreads easily between cats. The main route of transmission is through direct contact with respiratory secretions from infected cats. When an infected cat sneezes, coughs, or even breathes, it releases viral particles into the air which can then be inhaled by other cats. These particles can also contaminate surfaces like food bowls, litter boxes, toys, bedding etc. Other cats that come in contact with these contaminated objects can pick up the virus and become infected. Grooming behaviors like nuzzling and licking can also facilitate transmission. The virus can survive in the environment for several days or even weeks. Catteries and multi-cat households are therefore at higher risk since the virus spreads quickly when many cats are housed together. While humans can carry the virus on clothing or hands after touching infected cats, cat flu does not spread from cats to humans.
Common symptoms of cat flu
Cat flu is an upper respiratory infection caused by viral or bacterial pathogens. The most common symptoms of cat flu include:
- Sneezing
- Nasal discharge
- Watery eyes
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
- Coughing
- Congestion
- Ulcers in the mouth
- Conjunctivitis (pink eye)
According to the Blue Cross, sneezing is often one of the very first signs of cat flu. Nasal discharge frequently starts off clear but can become thick and yellowish-green as secondary infections set in. Cats may develop watery, inflamed eyes with ulcerations on the cornea. Loss of appetite and lethargy are also seen as the infection makes cats feel unwell (source).
Kittens with cat flu may develop life-threatening pneumonia if the infection spreads to their lungs. Cats of all ages can get quite sick from cat flu, especially if they have weakened immune systems.
Diagnosis
Cat flu is usually diagnosed based on the clinical signs and symptoms. According to Blue Cross, vets will look for typical signs like sneezing, discharge from the eyes and nose, ulcers in the mouth, fever, and lethargy. They may also perform additional diagnostic tests to identify the specific cause.
One common diagnostic test is to take swab samples from the throat and eyes and analyze them for the presence of viruses like feline herpesvirus or feline calicivirus (Blue Cross). Vets may also run blood tests looking for elevated white blood cell counts, which can indicate infection.
In some cases, vets may use imaging tests like X-rays or CT scans to get a closer look at the sinuses and rule out issues like tumors or foreign objects lodged in the nasal passages (Cats.org.uk). Overall, diagnosis is based on clinical evaluation, but vets have several tools to identify the underlying cause and ensure proper treatment.
Treatment
There is no specific treatment that can cure cat flu, as it is caused by viruses. However, vets can prescribe medications and recommend home care to help ease symptoms and make cats more comfortable while their immune system fights off the infection.
Antibiotics may be prescribed if secondary bacterial infections develop, but they have no effect on the viruses causing cat flu. Anti-inflammatories can help reduce fever, swelling, and congestion. Decongestants may also be recommended for nasal congestion and eye drops for conjunctivitis. Pain medication can provide relief if cats are struggling with sore throats or headaches.
At home, the main treatment focus is on supportive care to keep cats as comfortable as possible while they recover. This includes ensuring they stay hydrated by encouraging drinking and feeding wet food. Congested cats can benefit from being in a steamy bathroom. Nutritional supplements and probiotics can also support their immune system function. Reducing stress and allowing ample rest are also very important.
While cat flu must run its course, symptomatic relief paired with nursing care can significantly improve recovery time and help prevent secondary complications. If any concerning or prolonged symptoms arise, take cats to the vet promptly for examination and treatment guidance (https://www.purina.co.uk/articles/cats/health/symptoms/cat-flu). Most cats fully bounce back within 2-4 weeks with appropriate care and monitoring.
Mortality Rate
The overall mortality rate for cats infected with cat flu viruses is relatively low, though kittens and older or immunocompromised cats are at higher risk. According to a 2022 review, the mortality rate for cats infected with feline calicivirus (FCV) is estimated to be <1%-5% (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9145992/). However, the mortality rate can reach up to 60% in kittens infected with highly virulent strains of FCV. Another study estimates the mortality rate of kittens infected with feline herpesvirus-1 (FHV-1), the other main cat flu virus, to be 10%-20% (https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0166354219300877). With supportive care and treatment, most adult cats can recover from cat flu, though they may become chronic carriers of the viruses.
Risk Factors
There are certain risk factors that can increase a cat’s chance of mortality from cat flu:
- Kittens under 12 weeks old – Kittens have the highest mortality rate from cat flu, with death rates up to 70% in unvaccinated kittens according to Cats Protection.
- Unvaccinated cats – Cats who have not been vaccinated against FHV and FCV are at much higher risk of developing severe symptoms and complications.
- Older cats – Senior cats with weaker immune systems can have a harder time fighting off infection.
- Stray cats – Cats in shelters or as strays are more likely to be exposed to the viruses and spread infection.
- Other illness – Cats who already have other medical conditions are less able to combat flu symptoms.
- Stress – Stress can weaken a cat’s immune response.
Prevention
There are several ways to help prevent a cat from getting or spreading cat flu:
Get your cat vaccinated against cat flu – Vaccines can help prevent infection from the most common viruses that cause cat flu like feline herpesvirus, feline calicivirus, and feline panleukopenia virus. Kittens should receive an initial vaccination course followed by annual boosters (Trudell Animal Health).
Keep cats indoors – Keeping cats indoors reduces their exposure to infected cats and contaminated objects. Outdoor cats have a higher risk of being exposed to respiratory pathogens (WebMD).
Isolate new cats – Quarantine new cats for at least 2 weeks before introducing them to your household. This allows time to monitor them for any signs of illness (Blue Cross).
Practice good hygiene – Wash hands before and after handling cats to prevent disease spread. Disinfect bowls, toys, litter boxes, and other items regularly.
Reduce stress – High stress levels can weaken a cat’s immune system. Provide environmental enrichment with toys, scratching posts, cat trees, and affection.
Support immune health – Feed a nutritious diet and avoid exposure to cigarette smoke which can irritate airways.
Prognosis
Generally, healthy cats who recover from cat flu can expect a good long term outlook after recovery. However, cats with chronic flu or underlying issues like FIV may continue to have recurring bouts of symptoms or respiratory issues (Blue Cross, 2023). The duration of the condition is often related to severity, with mild cases resolving in 5-10 days while more severe cases can persist for up to 6 weeks (Trudell Animal Health).
Cats who have fully recovered can live normal, healthy lives afterward with a typical life expectancy. However, secondary infections are possible if the cat’s immune system was compromised. Annual vaccines and avoiding exposure to infected cats can help prevent recurrence of symptoms. Overall, the prognosis is good for cats who received prompt treatment and have recovered fully without complications.
Conclusion
Cat flu is a highly contagious viral infection in cats that can lead to severe upper respiratory symptoms and potentially fatal pneumonia. The exact mortality rate is difficult to determine, but studies estimate it is around 10-20% in untreated cases. With prompt veterinary care and proper treatment, the prognosis for recovery is good. Vaccination is critical to prevent outbreaks, along with isolating infected cats and disinfecting environments. Cat owners should monitor their pets closely for any signs of illness and seek veterinary advice immediately if cat flu is suspected. While it can be serious if left unchecked, cat flu is manageable with vigilance, care and early intervention. Keeping cats up to date on vaccines and providing proper nutrition and living conditions gives them the best chance of staying healthy and avoiding this potentially deadly respiratory infection.