Feline Herpes Virus (FHV-1) in Kittens

When you bring home a new kitten, you want to make sure they stay happy and healthy. One thing many cats carry is something called feline herpes virus or FHV-1. It sounds scary, but don’t worry—this virus is very common and usually not serious.

What Is FHV-1?

Feline Herpes Virus in Kittens causes cold-like symptoms. Think of it like a kitty cold. Cats with FHV-1 may sneeze, have watery eyes, or a stuffy nose. Just like people with cold sores, cats carry this virus for life, but it only shows up once in a while—usually when they are stressed.

Herpes Take Home Pamphlet.pdf

Download PDF • 33.62MB

How Do Cats Get It?

Most cats get it as kittens from their mother or other cats. About 90% of cats carry the virus! But most of the time, it stays asleep in their body and doesn’t cause problems.

What Triggers a Flare-Up?

A flare-up can happen when your kitten is stressed. Some things that might stress a cat include:

• Moving to a new home

• A trip to the vet

• Changes in routine or weather

• A new pet in the house

When this happens, you might notice your kitten sneezing or getting goopy eyes. This is normal and usually goes away in 7 to 10 days.

What Should I Do?

Most of the time, you can care for your kitten at home. Here’s how to help:

• Keep your kitten warm and calm

• Use a humidifier or steamy bathroom for stuffy noses

• Wipe their eyes gently with a soft, damp cloth

• Make sure they keep eating and drinking

• Wet food is easier when they’re congested

• You can use a special ointment from the pet store if their eyes are goopy

And remember: you can always take your kitten to the vet, even for mild symptoms, just to be sure everything is okay.

Is It Dangerous?

Not usually. In healthy cats, FHV-1 is like a small cold. Some kittens or sick cats might get eye ulcers or breathing trouble, but that’s rare. With good care, your kitten will be just fine.

Can It Be Cured?

No, there is no cure. But that’s okay! Most cats live long, happy lives and only get sick once in a while. Some owners give their cats a daily lysine supplement to help their immune system and reduce flare-ups.

Can It Spread?

Yes—but only to other cats. It can’t spread to humans or dogs. If you have more than one cat, it’s a good idea to keep them apart during a flare-up and wash your hands after touching them.

Should I Worry?

No! This is nothing to panic about. FHV-1 is a part of life for many cats. With love, care, and good food, your kitten will be just fine.

Enjoy your time with your new fluffy friend—they’re lucky to have you!

Herpes Take Home Pamphlet.pdf

Download PDF • 33.62MB

For more information on whether or not you should get insurance for your Marwood Maine Coon click here.

For more helpful information on your Marwood Maine Coon Kitten click the link below.

The Ultimate Guide to Maine Coon Cats: Size, Care, Cost & Personality