Cat viral nasal tracheitis, also known as infectious nasal tracheitis, is an acute and highly contagious upper respiratory infection in cats. The pathogen of this disease is the feline herpesvirus. Under natural conditions, infection generally occurs through the respiratory and digestive tracts. After cats are infected, the virus replicates in the epithelial cells of the cat’s nasal cavity, throat, trachea, conjunctiva, and tongue, and is discharged outside through secretions. Some cats show no symptoms after infection, known as asymptomatic infection, but can still shed the virus. Therefore, when healthy cats come into contact with virus-contaminated feed, water, utensils, or the surrounding environment, the disease can spread widely. Experiments have shown that the virus can also be rapidly transmitted via droplets. Both adult and young cats are susceptible to this disease, especially kittens, which may suffer severe symptoms leading to death.

　　This disease spreads rapidly and often has a sudden onset. The clinical signs in sick cats are diverse. Some cases show obvious febrile systemic symptoms, with body temperatures rising to around 40°C, depression, decreased appetite, and obvious weight loss; others mainly show respiratory symptoms and conjunctivitis. Affected cats frequently cough, sneeze, and have increased nasal discharge, along with mucous eye discharge. Due to stomatitis and ulcerative glossitis, they may drool and have bad breath, and their coat may be rough. Some show reproductive organ lesions such as vaginitis and abortion. Severe cases mainly exhibit conjunctivitis, rhinitis, and bronchitis symptoms. Based on these points, a preliminary diagnosis can be made, but laboratory testing is required for confirmation. Treatment typically uses antibiotics to prevent secondary infections, combined with symptomatic therapy.

　　Gentamicin is used at 10,000-15,000 units per kg of body weight, divided into 3-4 oral doses; or compound sulfamethoxazole tablets are given twice daily, 1/4 tablet per dose. A 2%-3% boric acid solution can be used to rinse the eyes, followed by application of tetracycline or cortisone eye drops. When affected cats have a low food intake or dehydration, prompt rehydration and supportive therapy should be administered. There is currently no vaccine available domestically for this disease; prevention mainly involves general epidemic control measures. Foreign countries produce monovalent attenuated vaccines or multivalent combined vaccines, both with good immunization effects. Strengthening feeding management to enhance cats’ disease resistance is an active measure. At the same time, contact with sick cats should be avoided to prevent infection. (Source：PetsZone)