Calicivirus

[annajojo]

My cat tested positive for calicivirus back in April. The initial outbreak was terrible. He was vommitng, runny nose, sneezing/sniffles, and just sat staring in a corner. The vet put him on antibiotics and gave me an ointment for his eyes (one was completely crusted shut with mucus). After two weeks he came out of it and returned to normal. The vet told me he most likely would not have an outbreak for a while, but as of two days ago I noticed his nose started running and then last night he started vomitting piles of mucus. Also, my cats back legs have also become very weak. He can still jump and walk, but his back legs are bowing out. I took him to the vet and they checked his spine which is fine. He is also not in pain. A Urine test did show he had muscle deterioration. Has anyone heard of this being a symptom of calicivirus? I feel like such a bad cat mom having to watch him go through this knowing there is nothing I can do.
I was wondering if anyone out there can just give me an idea of how often to expect outbreaks. I feel guilty making my cat go through this. If anyone can give me any advice or encouragement I would so appreciate it. I feel helpless. Thanks.

[mirka]

Hi,

I am certain that someone has already responded to your message, but since I am now dealing with similar concerns, I wanted to share with you what I have learned. There is indeed some sort of joint infection associated with the virus and can cause limping. We adopted a 4-month old kitten five days ago, and at the shelter they told us that the cat had had URI, and when we picked him up, he seemed to be getting it again. He was sneezing, had watery eyes, etc. but they told us that it would usually go away within a few days. Despite these symptoms he first seemed fine, ate and drank normally, and was playful. But now after 4 days he has become weak, is not eating, seems to have very labored breathing, and I just noticed that he is limping (his left back leg). I first had no idea what is was, but did some Internet search, and think it might be FCV. I called the vet and described the symptoms, but they told me that they cannot see our cat until the next day, and that they think he'll be fine. I am very concerned, however, the kitten seems so letargic, and I feel so sorry for him. I wonder if you or anyone else reading this blog knows how serious this virus is, and is it indeed fine to wait for 24 hours after you notice symptoms like the ones I just described?

Thank you.

Concerned owner