You’re surely familiar with several viral diseases in cats, from herpesvirus to FIV and FeLV, as well as calicivirus. You may already know that these viruses can cause a wide range of symptoms, including respiratory disease, eye problems, or suppression of the immune system. But did you know that, more rarely, some feline viruses can also manifest… on the skin?
Which viruses, and what should we look out for?
When we think of skin problems in cats, viruses are usually not the first cause that comes to mind, and for good reason. Allergies, parasites, infections, and other dermatologic conditions are far more common. Still, in some cases, the skin can tell a very different story.
Feline Herpesvirus: Most people know feline herpesvirus for causing respiratory symptoms or eye disease which can be very uncomfortable. However, in certain cases, this same virus can also lead to skin lesions, particularly around the face. Ulcers, crusts, and inflamed areas can sometimes develop around the eyes, nose, or facial region and can be quite impressive. Because this virus can remain dormant in the body and reactivate later (especially during periods of stress ), some flare-ups can be unexpected.
Calicivirus: This virus is well known for causing mouth ulcers and respiratory signs, but in rarer cases, it can also affect the skin. Certain forms may cause lesions on the nose, paw pads, or even the extremities of the limbs. Fortunately, these presentations are much less common.
FeLV and FIV: These viruses work a little differently. By weakening the immune system, they can predispose cats to recurrent skin infections or to more unusual skin conditions. A cat developing repeated skin infections, atypical lesions, or skin problems that do not respond to treatment as expected may prompt your veterinary team to investigate further.
Poxvirus : Poxviruses are much rarer, but they can occasionally be considered when evaluating certain ulcerative skin lesions. They are seen most often in outdoor cats that hunt rodents.
Diagnosis and treatment
Because many different conditions can cause similar-looking skin lesions, reaching the correct diagnosis is especially important. Treatments can vary significantly depending on the underlying cause.
Based on what your veterinarian observes, several tests may be recommended, including skin sampling, bloodwork, FeLV or FIV screening tests, PCR testing for certain viruses, or even a skin biopsy when the picture is particularly unclear.
The goal is to determine exactly why the lesion is present, since each disease requires a different approach. What may help in one case could be ineffective, or even worsen the condition, in another.
Even though viral diseases are not our first instinct when faced with a skin problem in cats, they remain important considerations in certain situations. Your veterinary team can help guide you toward the most appropriate tests and treatments.
