Feline calicivirus often occurs along with other respiratory infections, such as feline herpes virus or feline rhinotracheitis. Cats suffering from feline calicivirus exhibit symptoms of nasal and eye discharge, and oral lesions along with gingivitis. This causes discomfort and the cat may be unable to consume food or water. Feline calicivirus is contagious in nature and easily spreads to other pets when they come in contact with infected surfaces that contain saliva, nasal or eye discharge. Infected cats may also transmit the virus to other pets living in close proximity. Although feline calicivirus affects cats of all age groups and breeds, some pets are at greater risk of contracting the infection.
Cats Susceptible to Feline Calicivirus
Cats may be exposed to the virus several times in their life. Healthy pets have strong immune systems and build immunity towards the virus. However, older cats, kittens and pets with compromised immune systems are more likely to fall prey to the infection when exposed to the virus. Due to this reason, pet owners should vaccinate pets routinely and maintain hygienic surroundings to reduce the occurrence of viral infections.
Importance of Vaccination
Vaccines include a small quantity of killed or modified virus, which enables the body to build immunity towards certain infectious agents. Some pet owners are concerned about the side effects of vaccines, particularly vaccine associated sarcomas. However, newer vaccines don't contain adjuvants that are related to the formation of vaccine associated sarcomas in pets. All cats and kittens are generally administered core vaccines. Non-core vaccines should be administered to those pets at greater risk of contracting specific diseases. Although vaccines protect pets to a great extent, pet owners should always adopt preventive measures to ensure complete protection.
Feline Calicivirus Vaccine
Feline vaccines are available as modified live vaccines and killed injectable vaccines. The modified live vaccines provide better protection and are safer for use on healthy pets with strong immune systems. Vaccines may also be administered as intranasal vaccines, which are safely administered in the nose. Vaccines are often administered as combination doses, since feline herpes vaccine may be given along with the feline calicivirus vaccine. Most vaccines require annual booster shots to ensure protection. Calicivax is a vaccine administered to cats to protect them from virulent systemic calicivirus, a mutated form of feline calicivirus. The vaccine should be administered in accordance with vaccine protocols and should be administered with care to avoid contact with the pet's eyes, nose and mouth.