Canberra Cat Vet Blog

The virulent feline calicivirus outbreak has been halted. It was a very nasty strain of calicivirus, which our vets rapidly identified. It caused facial swelling, high fever, mouth ulcers and pain.
We are very happy that unlike other outbreaks in Queensland, Sydney and the United States we didn't lose any patients.
Dr Georgia was in touch with the experts at Sydney University for advice and we halted the spread of the virus and treated affected patients successfully. We also advised other ACT and southern NSW veterinarians and catteries on eradication and treatment.
We suspect that one of 3 possible cats introduced it into the ACT but won't know for certain until the virologists have analysed the viruses we have sent them.
Virologists at the University of Sydney are working on a vaccine for this calicivirus strain. We certainly hope we never see it again in our lifetime!

A virulent and atypical form of calicivirus has infected some cats in Canberra. Only 2 other outbreaks have ever occurred in Australia - in Sydney and in Ipswich, Queensland. Vaccination against the usual strains of calicivirus does not seem to protect cats
Affected cats go off their food, seem lame or sore, and hide. Most get over it with pain medication and TLC. Some go onto develop swollen noses, faces and paws, and need intensive care. If you suspect your cat is ill please phone us before coming down and then when you arrive.
To protect your cat from becoming infected wash your hands for at least 30 seconds when you get home from anywhere and before touching your cat.
We have instituted very strict disinfection procedures at Canberra Cat Vet. Do not be offended if we ask you to be a lot more careful with carriers, and in touching anything at the hospital! We have your cats' health as our top priority.

 

Sixteen year old Harry is having trouble jumping up on the table this winter. He circles it quite a few times before making the leap. His family also noticed that he is sleeping a lot more this winter and is reluctant to move when he first wakes up.

Cats don't usually limp unless their arthritis is severe. Their elbows, knees and backs are the most common sites for arthritis.

Harry's older brother Cino hesitates to jump down off the bed. He has also been toileting around the litter box instead of in it lately. His elbows were thickened and painful when he came to visit last week and Dr Kate found that his lower back was acutely painful. Harry's knees were his problem.

We've found a litter box with lower sides for Cino and have put a footrest near Harry's favourite perch to make access easier. Both Harry and Cino are trialing some arthritis meds and fish oil. Already their family has noticed that they are more mobile and interested in cuddles and household doings.