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Rhinotracheitis is caused by a herpes virus that attacks the eyes, nasal passages, and trachea (windpipe) of cats. Once infected, a cats shows respiratory signs, such as sneezing, cough, and runny eyes and nose, within 2 to 5 days. Infection is spread by contact with discharges from the eyes, nose or mouth of infected cats or contact with contaminated cloting, hands, feeding utensils, or other articles. In mild cases, recovery occurs in 1 to 2 weeks, while more severe cases may last for sevearl weeks.
Adult cats usually recover, but the disease is more serious in kittens, and fatalities are not uncommon. Some cats become persistently infected and suffer from chronic sneezing or periodic relapses.
Vaccination is the best means of preventing this disease.
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