feline calicivirus

Feline calicivirus (FCV) is a virus that belongs to the family Caliciviridae. These viruses have a specific structure, with nonenveloped particles about 35–39 nanometers in diameter. The FCV is known to cause upper respiratory disease in cats.1

FCV is particularly common in environments with multiple cats, such as shelters and pet stores, where an estimated 25–40 percent of cats may be carriers. Transmission occurs through direct contact and shared items like food bowls and litter boxes. While FCV can cause symptoms like sneezing, coughing, fever, and loss of appetite, it can sometimes lead to pneumonia, which can be fatal, especially in kittens. Vaccination is recommended for all cats to protect against FCV.2