One of the most dangerous viruses is coronavirus in cats. There is currently no vaccine, that provides 100% immunity from this infection, no developed treatment regimen. Strains of the microorganism cause several types of diseases.
forms of pathology
Coronavirus in cats causes acute diseases - feline enteritis and infectious peritonitis. The disease itself can take three different forms:
- Asymptomatic stage - c 80% In some cases, the virus does not cause pathological processes in the body, however, the animal becomes a carrier and infects other individuals.
- Mild stage - there are general malaise and intestinal disorders.
- Severe stage - disorders occur in all organs and systems, a clear sign is the accumulation of exudate in the abdominal cavity. Not treatable, occurs in 5% cases.
causes of occurrence
Coronavirus infection is caused by a virus of the genus Coronaviridae, for cats the most dangerous are two of them - FIPV and FECV. The first microorganism is the causative agent of peritonitis, the second - leads to enteritis. In animals, the FECV virus behaves in an interesting way, its strains are in "standby mode", and at any external or internal influence mutate and acquire pathogenic properties.
The main source of infection is a sick animal, along with its feces, the virus is released into the environment. A healthy pet can pick it up, eating contaminated food or water, as well as in close contact with the patient. Under unsanitary conditions, the risk of getting sick increases significantly.
Experts suggest, that infection is possible by airborne transmission, as well as through the placenta from mother to baby.
Symptoms of coronavirus in cats
Most often, the coronavirus in cats has mild symptoms, however at an inflammation of intestines the clinical picture starts to be shown.
What are the signs of enteritis in cats:
- Liquid stool, in fecal masses may be impurities of mucus or blood.
- Weight loss, slow weight gain in kittens.
- Anorexia.
- attacks of vomiting
- Rising body temperature.
Such symptoms of coronavirus in cats do not require treatment, however, therapy is required in case of secondary infection, as on a background of an illness the runny nose and tearing of an eye are quite often observed.
Manifestations of infectious peritonitis:
- Rapid fatigue.
- Depressed state.
- Diarrhea.
- Refusal to eat.
- Attacks of vomiting.
- Weight loss.
- Paleness of mucous membranes.
- Impaired kidney function.
- Cramps, loss of coordination.
- Ascites.
- Muscle atony.
Some owners treat coronavirus in cats with folk remedies, using medicinal plants and herbs. Source: Flickr (Peter _ + _ Gabriele3)
Treatment of coronavirus infection
No therapy has been developed for this disease in cats, there is also no vaccine, which would provide 100% protection of pets. To date, the most effective drugs are Primucell and Pfizer.
The feline coronavirus vaccine contains a strain of the microorganism, depending on the temperature regime.
It is able to reproduce only at lower temperatures (in this case - in the oropharynx), which promotes the emergence of local immunity, however, too few immunoglobulins are produced.
Although such a vaccine fully meets the safety requirements and even has some effect, in many cases it is simply useless. Usually by the time you reach age, recommended for the first injection, the kitten is already a carrier of this virus. There is also no evidence of the effectiveness of the drug against infectious peritonitis.
Some owners treat coronavirus in cats with folk remedies, using medicinal plants and herbs. Such therapy is reduced to increasing immunity, rhodiola rosea is included in the medical fee, rose hips brown, lured high, nettle dioecious, hawthorn, St. John's wort.
Importantly! Before using any medication (even plants and herbs) Be sure to consult your veterinarian.
prevention of infection
Prevention of coronaviruses plays an important role. New animals must be examined, who got into the nursery or house, where there are already fluffy pets, be sure to vaccinate healthy cats from the legal age.
Hygienic procedures should be kept in mind, keep the house clean, wash bedding. Trays should be washed and disinfected periodically, and put food bowls away from them. Food should always be fresh and of good quality.
Coronavirus is a dangerous infection, however, if you follow the basic rules of prevention, you can ensure your pet long and good health.