Suspected Feline Calicivirus Infection Triggering Ulcerative Oral and Skin Lesions in Cats Following Routine Ovariohysterectomy: A Postoperative Risk Assessment

Abstract

Feline calicivirus (FCV) is a highly contagious pathogen prevalent in domestic cats, often leading to upper respiratory tract infections and oral diseases. In clinical settings, particularly veterinary hospitals and shelters, nosocomial outbreaks of FCV can occur, sometimes involving virulent systemic disease (VSD) strains that result in severe systemic illness with high mortality rates. This retrospective study reviews the clinical and diagnostic features of 15 cats that developed postoperative ulcerative tongue lesions, ptyalism and skin lesions after elective ovariohysterectomy (OVH) performed at a veterinary teaching hospital. In all documented cases, the initial postoperative clinical manifestation was the development of widespread ulcerative lesions on the tongue, accompanied by ptyalism. Accompanying signs included anorexia, lethargy, fever, dysphagia and various dermatological manifestations. Although healing took longer for those with skin issues, recovery was achieved in all cases. While some clinical features resembled virulent systemic FCV (VSD-FCV), no multi-organ dysfunction or mortality occurred, and the diagnosis remained presumptive due to the absence of molecular confirmation. Instead, diagnosis of suspected FCV infection was made based on consistent clinical signs and positive antibody detection using a fluorescent immunoassay rapid test. Cats were primarily treated with antibiotics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories and corticosteroids; however, in some cases, extended treatment was provided based on the observed symptoms. The clinical and serological findings suggest that early recognition of suspected FCV cases and immediate intervention can contribute to favourable outcomes and help limit potential nosocomial spread. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report from Turkey documenting suspected FCV clusters following OVH, offering observational insight into potential postoperative transmission. In conclusion, although OVH is a standard procedure, it is crucial to implement stringent infection control measures to prevent the spread of FCV and other infectious agents in veterinary settings.