Calicivirus

About the virus

· Stable in the environment for 8-10 days

· Susceptible to bleach 1:32

· Transmission is by direct cat to cat contact, indirectly on hands, clothing, grooming equipment, bowls… and airborne (less so).

About the disease

· Incubation once exposed is 2-10 days

· Disease usually lasts 1-2 weeks

· High morbidity, variable mortality (ie. a lot get sick, variable how many die associated with the disease.)

· Signs are: sneezing, nasal discharge, oral ulcers, conjunctivitis, eye discharge, fever.

· Chronic carriers are common – can persist for several years, Virus is shed continuously, not just when cats are clinically ill.

Control

· Comprehensive vaccination program

· Strict isolation of new cats for 10-14 days

· Isolation of sick cats

· FeLV/FIV tests on all cats (annually if they travel, show)

· Good sanitation/ventilation in cattery, home.