If you’ve ever browsed cat adoption profiles and come across the phrase “feline herpes positive,” you might hesitate at first. It sounds intimidating—but it doesn’t have to be. With a bit of knowledge and some extra loving care, cats with FHV-1 can live happy and healthy lives just like any other cat. In this article, you’ll learn what feline herpes is, what can trigger flare-ups, and how simple, informed care can make adopting an FHV-1 cat a deeply rewarding experience.
What is feline herpes and how is it spread?
Because of its latency and potential reactivation, FHV‑1 is often misinterpreted as a chronic disease—but it behaves more like a “flareable” virus than a constantly debilitating one.
Feline herpesvirus type 1 (FHV‑1), also called feline viral rhinotracheitis (FVR), is one of the most common viral infections in cats. Any cat can contract FHV-1, but younger cats are most often affected. FHV-1 can be spread through saliva as well as nasal and eye discharge, either directly from the cat or from a contaminated object like a toy or food dish. After initial exposure, the virus typically causes an upper respiratory and ocular infection (sneezing, nasal/eye discharge, conjunctivitis) lasting around 10–20 days in mild cases.
Even once the acute symptoms have resolved, the virus remains in a dormant state in nerve tissues for the cat’s life. The virus is most likely to reactivate if the cat experiences stress or an immune system challenge. When it reactivates, it causes a flare-up. Many cats experience very mild or even subclinical symptoms when a flare-up occurs.
FHV-1 vs. FIV vs. FeLV
It’s easy to confuse FHV‑1 with other feline viruses like FIV (feline immunodeficiency virus) or FeLV (feline leukemia virus), but they’re quite different. FHV‑1 is a respiratory virus that causes flare-ups like sneezing and eye discharge, but doesn’t impact a cat’s immune system the way the other two do. FIV is an immune-compromising virus primarily spread through deep bite wounds, while FeLV is a retrovirus that can suppress immune function and is more easily spread through prolonged close contact like grooming or shared dishes. Each virus has its realities, but none are an automatic disqualifier for a loving, quality life.
Myth vs. Reality: Common Misconceptions About FHV-1
Myth 1: “Having FHV-1 means the cat will have a low quality of life that’s filled with constant illness and discomfort.”
Reality: Most cats recover from initial infection and go on to lead essentially normal lives. While younger kittens, immunocompromised cats, or those with other illnesses might experience a more severe disease, serious outcomes are relatively rare in otherwise healthy cats.
Myth 2: “A cat with FHV-1 will always be symptomatic.”
Reality: Many cats are asymptomatic carriers most of the time, with flare-ups only under stress (e.g. moving, travel, other illness). In fact, viral shedding (when the cat is contagious) is much more likely during active episodes; in dormancy, shedding is minimal or absent.
Myth 3: “Herpes in cats is like herpes in people and can spread to humans or dogs.”
Reality: FHV‑1 is species-specific; humans and dogs cannot contract feline herpes.
Myth 4: “You can cure FHV-1 completely.”
Reality: There is no cure for herpes in cats. The goal is managing symptoms, reducing flare frequency and severity, and supporting the cat’s overall health through good nutrition and enrichment.
Myth 5: “You can prevent FHV-1 completely.”
Reality: One of the core vaccines recommended for kittens and adult cats by the Feline Veterinary Medical Association is the FHV-1 vaccine. While this vaccine doesn’t completely eliminate the chances of the cat contracting FHV-1, it is highly effective at preventing severe illness, including symptom severity and duration, and it also helps limit the cat’s viral shedding and how contagious it is to other cats. This vaccine is often administered as part of a combination vaccine called FVRCP, which protects against Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia. All cats at Cat Care Society are given the FVRCP vaccine according to the recommended schedule.
As you can see, the reality is that cats with FHV-1 can still live long, happy lives with proper care, love, and a stable environment that supports their health and comfort.
Helpful Things to Know Before Adopting a Cat with FHV‑1
If a shelter informs you that a cat you’re interested in adopting has FHV-1, keep the following considerations and tips in mind to help your future feline friend thrive:
1. Review and discuss the cat’s medical records and history
At CCS, if a cat is suspected of having feline herpes, it will be noted in their medical records along with information about the virus. It’s also important to understand if the cat has any other co-existing conditions, like upper respiratory illness or eye concerns, that might complicate flare management. Understanding the individual cat’s history gives you a more accurate sense of what to expect so you can be prepared. You should also share this information with your veterinarian so they can create a treatment and management plan. In most cases, FHV-1 symptoms are non-life threatening and the cat will respond well to general supportive care.
2. Prepare for occasional flares
Be aware of the respiratory and ocular signs of a flare-up, such as sneezing, watery eyes, discharge, and corneal irritation or ulcers, especially in times of stress. During those times, vet support (antivirals, topical ocular medication, secondary infection treatment) plus extra care at home can often resolve symptoms.
3. Stress reduction is essential
Stress is one of the strongest triggers for viral reactivation. Strategies to help minimize stress include:
- Creating a calm, stable environment with hiding spots, vertical spaces, predictable routines
- Minimizing abrupt changes (moving, new pets, loud renovation)
- Using enrichment (puzzles, play, cuddles, and other activities your cat enjoys)
- Avoiding overcrowding or competition in a multi-cat home, e.g., make sure there are adequate litter boxes, feeding time is comfortable, and there’s a place for the cat to have alone time when needed
4. Supportive care—daily and during flares
Even when asymptomatic, certain practices, in addition to stress reduction, can reduce flare risk and flare severity:
- Keep vaccinations current (especially FVRCP).
- Maintain high nutrition and hydration.
- During a flare, provide extra comfort (warm, humid environment, nasal/ocular cleaning, appetite support), follow vet-prescribed medication instructions.
- If in a multi-cat household:
Adopting a Cat with Herpes Is a Worthy Decision
Many potential adopters hesitate when they see an FHV-1–positive cat, but choosing to adopt one and offering them a loving home can be truly life-changing—for both of you. Here at CCS, we’ve received many heartwarming updates from adopters whose herpes-positive cats are thriving, underscoring that with care and compassion these cats can live long, joyful lives. If you’d like more information on FHV-1, including details on how the virus works and common treatment regiments, check out this great article by VCA Animal Hospitals.
About the Author: Beth Dokolasa is a volunteer for Cat Care Society and serves on the Board of Directors. She is an instructional developer for Natural Grocers and lives in Indian Hills, Colo., with her husband, daughter, and two cats, Techno and Digit.
