Signs and Symptoms of FCV
Calicivirus affects the upper respiratory system, the eyes, the musculoskeletal system, and the gastrointestinal tract. Common symptoms include the following:
- Acute, painful lameness due to tenderness in the joints (arthritis) or muscles (myalgia)
- Fever
- Mild loss of appetite
- Pneumonia, often accompanied by labored, difficult breathing
- Ulcerations (pus-filled sores) on the tongue, palate, lips, or tip of the nose
- Ulcers around the claws, on the bottom of the feet and between the toes
- Upper respiratory infection with eye and nose discharge, (usually with little sneezing)
Calicivirus infection usually develops suddenly. Most infected cats appear healthy and alert; they may have ulcers and no other symptoms (i.e., no fever or pain). Some cats may have mild secondary bacterial infections that are similar to those associated with FHV.
