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Herpes is something that no human wants to come across, so it's understandable if you're concerned at the idea that even your cat could contract this illness. If you want to do everything you can to protect your cat, here's what you need to know about herpes and the potential hazards it could pose to your cat.

The Type of Herpes

Feline herpes is a little bit different than the type of herpes that might first spring to mind when you hear the word. It's not genital herpes; it's more similar to the type of herpes that causes chicken pox and shingles in humans.

This type of herpes can cause similar symptoms to chicken pox and shingles in cats. Cats tend to develop cold-like symptoms, with discharge from the eyes, nose, coughing, sneezing, and lethargy. In some cases, cats can get fevers from it as well. Unfortunately, like chickenpox, once a cat catches this illness, it can go away only to come back later on, in the same way that chicken pox becomes shingles in humans.

How It's Caught

Although this isn't the sexually transmitted disease being talked about, feline herpes tends to be spread by bodily fluids nonetheless. A cat's saliva, excrement, and any discharge from the eyes and nose can potentially spread the illness to other cats. This means that if two cats eat or drink together, or one comes along and consumes food or drink after the infected cat has been using the same bowls, they can contract the illness.

Protection and Treatment

Protecting your cat from this illness is as simple as vaccinating them. Herpes protection is typically included in the standard series of feline vaccinations that are given to kittens—or adult cats—if they weren't vaccinated as kittens.

If your cat has already developed herpes, the vaccine will no longer be able to protect them from it, as they already have it. However, some vets may recommend giving it to the cat anyway, as it can sometimes help to boost the immune system to prevent future flare-ups. Treatment typically includes antibiotics to prevent secondary infections and medication to bring down fevers and reduce nasal congestion.

Feline herpes is a serious problem for cats and one that can be avoided entirely if you know what to do. Make sure that your cat is vaccinated, especially if they're about to come in contact with new cats who could be carrying the illness. For more information about pet vaccinations, talk to your veterinarian.