There are a number of types of feline virus, each with a unique set of complications and symptoms. Viruses consist of basic genetic material encapsulated in a protective protein casing. A virus affects your cat by entering his system and altering his DNA, then replicating itself from within his body and returning to the atmosphere until it is picked up by a new host. Although feline viruses range from mild and inconsequential to very severe, there are a number of common symptoms associated with feline viruses of different types.
Viruses that affect cats typically fall into one of two categories: a virus will either negatively impact your cat's immune system or will attack a particular organ or part of the body. These two types of viruses display similar sets of symptoms, although exact signs and effects vary between each disease.
Lethargy
One of the most common symptoms of feline viruses that affect the immune system is general lethargy and malaise. A cat suffering from one of these diseases may seem listless or unwilling to play and move around. Because each cat differs, know your cat's healthy behavior and stay aware of any changes that he displays. Remember that this important symptom of feline viruses may not be readily noticeable unless you are familiar with your pet's normal behavior and activity.
Loss of Weight and Appetite
Felines suffering from a variety of viruses display a loss of appetite. Over time, this may contribute to weight loss. Although this symptom is not immediately dangerous to your pet, extended or prolonged weight loss carries a number of potential harmful effects, including death. Monitor your pet's food bowl and his behavior while eating. If you have mulitple cats that eat from the same bowl, consider separating their meals into different rooms in order to ensure that a healthy pet isn't eating all of the food.
Fever
Cats with viruses oftentimes have mild to serious fevers. The symptoms of a fever may overlap with other symptoms that your cat is already experiencing. Use a veterinary thermometer to measure your cat's temperature. If his temperature is higher than 102 degrees Fahrenheit, he may have a fever.
Inflammation
Viruses that affect a particular organ or body part may cause inflammation and infection in that part of the body. In some cases, this symptom may be visible. In others, however, the inflammation of an internal organ is not readily apparent on sight.
Increased Rate of Infection
Viruses cause your cat to be susceptible to a variety of infections. As your pet's caretaker, you are best able to recognize if he seems to generally be under the weather or if he seems to suffer from an increased number of infections. This is another telltale sign of an underlying virus of some kind.
Because feline viruses vary significantly in their type and scope, it is important to take your pet to a veterinarian for examination whenever you recognize any of the above symptoms. Prompt diagnosis and treatment is key to protecting your pet's health overall, but this is only possible if you are well aware of any changes to your pet's condition, however minor.