What causes Feline Ocular Herpes?

The feline herpesvirus (FHV-1) is a highly contagious virus that is one of the major causes of upper respiratory infections in cats and kittens. One of the many potential long-term sequela of exposure to this virus is damage to the ocular and periocular tissues. The virus is transmitted via oral, nasal, and conjunctival routes. The primary source of kitten infections is spread from their mothers at birth or during the first few weeks of life. The symptoms of viral upper respiratory infection usually will last for two to three weeks, however latent herpesvirus often remains dormant in the nerves of the face, eyelids, or corneal tissues. Recurrence of clinical symptoms of ocular disease can return periodically throughout life, especially during times of systemic illness or stress. In one study, 70% of cats shed herpesvirus when administered glucocorticoids (steroids). 

How is Feline Ocular Herpes diagnosed?

Clinical symptoms and patient history will usually provide a presumptive diagnosis of ocular FHV infection.  Specific diagnosis can also be determined with the aid of microscopic examination of the corneal and conjunctival surfaces, special corneal staining tests, and with cytology and culture of ocular surfaces. Symptoms of active infection can include fever, lethargy, sneezing, ocular discharge, nasal discharge, and conjunctivitis. Corneal ulceration can be a complication of infection and when ulceration is present, ocular pain and cloudiness of the corneal tissues is noted. In many young patients, permanent scarring and damage to the conjunctival tissues and cornea can occur. This condition is called symblepharon. Older cats may exhibit evidence of corneal stroma keratitis, eosinophilic keratitis, corneal sequestrum formation, and/or decreased tear film production.

* To read more from this article at the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists website go to the following link: Understanding Feline Ocular Herpes