Virulent Calicivirus

Virulent systemic calicivirus is a highly contagious mutation of the traditional calicivirus that has emerged as a major health threat to cats in certain areas of the United States. It has been seen in South Carolina and North Georgia. Clinical signs may include swelling of the face and limbs, oral ulcers, high fever, ulcerating skin sores, and organ failure. It can quickly kill healthy cats within 24 to 48 hours . We recommend vaccination for this new strain of calicivirus and have included it in our standard feline vaccination protocol. A booster is recommended 3 weeks after the initial vaccination with a yearly booster needed to maintain immunity.