For Your Cat - Cat Health Care Blog

Feline Calicivirus or FCV is spread by direct contact with eye or nasal discharge and saliva. It may also be spread by coming into contact with the water bowl or litter box of an infected cat.

In the beginning symptoms include nasal and eye discharge, sneezing, and fever. As the disease progresses, drooling will be seen due to the ulceration of the mouth and the tongue. The cat will stop eating, lose weight, and breathing will become more and more difficult.

Treatment will involve the use of antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications. The nose and eyes can be kept clear of discharge by using a cotton ball moistened with saline solution or water. On the chapped portions of the nose, a drop of baby oil can be used.

A vaccine is available to help protect your cat against FCV.

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Cats can develop inflammation of the outer ear (otitis externa) from ear mites, bacteria, wax accumulation, or infected wounds. Symptoms include odor, scratching or pawing at the ears, inflammation, head shaking, appearance of exudate, or holding ear flaps at an unusual angle. Treatment consists of cleansing the ear and applying a topical antibiotic medication.

Middle ear (otitis media) inflammation can be caused by bacteria, parasites, foreign bodies, or fungi. Symptoms include lack of balance and tilting of the head. Treatment may include the use of an antifungal medication or antibiotics. Surgery may be required in some cases.

Inner ear infections (otitis interna) are extremely serious and can result in irreversible damage or even death. Signs of an inner ear infection include vomiting, hearing loss, circling, abnormal eye movements, and loss of coordination and balance. Treatment may include the use of antibiotics or antifungal medication.

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