Home » Diseases » In cats » Aujeszky’s Disease (Infection with the Pseudorabies Virus)

Aujeszky’s Disease (Infection with the Pseudorabies Virus) in cats

Occurrence: very rare
Location of illness: General/Whole body

Author: Dr. med. vet. Gisa Löwe | Last modified: 17.02.2026

When to visit the vet?

Urgent see a veterinarian within 24 hours

If the condition worsens / symptoms persist, consult a veterinarian.

Definition

Aujeszky’s disease, also known as pseudorabies, is a viral infectionA viral infection occurs when a virus enters the body and infects healthy cells, which can lead to disease symptoms. The severity and type of symptoms can vary depending on the type of virus. caused by Suid Herpesvirus 1 (SHV-1) that primarily affects pigs but can also infect other animals such as cats. It is almost always fatal for cats.

The most important facts at a glance

Aujeszky’s disease, also known as pseudorabies, is caused by Suid Herpesvirus 1 and primarily affects pigs but can also infect other animal species such as cats. While pigs often show no or only mild symptoms, the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. in cats progresses rapidly and fatally. The virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants. is transmitted through direct contact with infected animals or consumption of infected pork. Infected cats show symptoms such as increased meowing, vomiting, salivation, uncoordinated gait, and neurological deficits. DiagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is made through clinical symptoms, medical historyThe medical history is the systematic collection of a patient's medical history through questioning. It includes information about previous illnesses, treatments, allergies, and lifestyle habits., and laboratory tests, using PCR methods and serological tests. There is no specific treatment; therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. is usually supportiveSupportive refers to supportive treatments that aim to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life without directly treating the underlying cause of the disease.. The prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. is very poor, as the disease is almost always fatal, often within two to three days after symptom onset. For preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring., cats should not receive raw pork and contact with potentially infected animals should be avoided. Regular veterinary check-ups are also important. Research focuses on developing improved diagnostic tests and vaccines as well as understanding transmission routes. Studies on genetic resistanceResistance refers to the ability of microorganisms to withstand the effects of antibiotics, antifungals, or other antimicrobial drugs. Resistance can also refer to the body's ability to be insensitive to diseases or toxins. and the role of wildlife as a viral reservoirA viral reservoir is an organism in which a virus can exist, multiply, and from which it can be transmitted to other hosts. Reservoirs are crucial for maintaining viruses in nature and can include animals, humans, or environmental media. are also significant. These approaches aim to help control the spread of the disease and minimize its impact.

Causes

Aujeszky’s disease is caused by Suid Herpesvirus 1, which belongs to the Herpesviridae family. This virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants. is closely related to other herpesviruses that infect various animal species. The virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants. is capable of causing latent infections, hiding in the host’s nerve cells.

Pigs are the primaryPrimary refers to the first or original cause of a disease or condition, as opposed to secondary causes or symptoms that develop from it. hosts and reservoirs for the virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants.. In pigs, the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. can be subclinicalSubclinical refers to a condition or disease that does not yet cause any recognizable symptoms. Subclinical diseases can only be diagnosed by specific tests or examinations. or cause mild symptoms. However, in other animal species, such as cats, the disease typically progresses acutely and fatally. The virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants. is primarily transmitted through direct contact with infected animals or contaminatedContaminated describes something that has been polluted by harmful microorganisms, chemicals, or other dangerous substances. In veterinary medicine, this can affect food, water, toys, or the environment. materials.

In cats, infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. often occurs through consumption of infected pork or contact with infected pigs. After infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease., the virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants. rapidly spreads through the nervous system and causes severe neurological symptoms.

Symptoms

Very common symptoms:

Common symptoms:

In cats, symptoms of Aujeszky’s disease typically appear quickly and severely. The incubation periodThe incubation period is the time between infection with a pathogen and the appearance of the first symptoms. This period can vary depending on the pathogen and individual immune response. is only a few days. InitialInitial means beginning or at the start. In medicine, it can refer to the first symptoms of a disease or the first phase of a treatment process. signs are often behavioral changes such as restlessness and increased meowing.

Soon after, more severe symptoms follow, such as excessive salivation, vomiting, and difficulty breathing. One of the most characteristic symptoms is intense itching that causes the cat to injure itself. This itching is so excruciating that it is often referred to as “pseudorabies.”

Neurological symptoms such as muscle tremors, disorientation, seizures, and paralysisParalysis is the complete loss of muscle activity in one or more areas of the body, which can lead to immobility and loss of sensation. Paralysis can be caused by injuries, illnesses, or disorders of the nervous system. are also common. The course of the disease is rapid and usually ends with the cat’s death within a few days.

Diagnosis

DiagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. of Aujeszky’s disease in cats is based on a combination of clinical symptoms, medical historyThe medical history is the systematic collection of a patient's medical history through questioning. It includes information about previous illnesses, treatments, allergies, and lifestyle habits., and laboratory tests. Since the symptoms are very characteristic, an experienced veterinarian can often make a presumptive diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. based on the clinical presentation.

To confirm the diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients., samples from the brain, spinal cordThe spinal cord is a long, narrow bundle of nerve tissue located in the spinal canal of the vertebral column. It is part of the central nervous system and transmits nerve impulses between the brain and body., or other tissues are collected and tested for the presence of the virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants.. Methods such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants. isolation tests are common procedures for confirming the presence of SHV-1 in tissue.

Serological tests to determine antibodies against the virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants. can also be performed, but are less useful because the disease progresses so rapidly in cats that the immune systemThe immune system is the body's defense system against infectious agents such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. It comprises a complex network of organs, cells, and molecules that work together to protect the body. often does not have enough time to produce antibodies before the cat dies.

Therapy

Unfortunately, there is no specific treatment for Aujeszky’s disease in cats. Since the disease progresses rapidly and is almost always fatal, treatment is primarily supportiveSupportive refers to supportive treatments that aim to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life without directly treating the underlying cause of the disease. and symptomatic.

Animals showing signs of the disease should be isolated from other animals to prevent the spread of the virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants.. SupportiveSupportive refers to supportive treatments that aim to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life without directly treating the underlying cause of the disease. measures may include administering fluids to prevent dehydrationDehydration occurs when the body loses more fluid than it takes in. This can lead to a number of problems, including headaches, Dizziness, and in extreme cases, renal failure or Cardiovascular collapse. and pain medication to relieve suffering.

In some cases, euthanasia may be considered to shorten the animal’s suffering, as the prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. is very poor and the disease is usually fatal.

Prognosis and follow-up care

The prognosisThe prognosis is the prediction of the likely course and outcome of a disease based on the general state of health, the nature of the disease, and the response to treatment. It can provide information on how a disease is expected to develop. for cats infected with Aujeszky’s disease is extremely poor. The disease progresses rapidly and is almost always fatal. Most cats die within two to three days after the first symptoms appear.

Since there is no effective treatment and the symptoms are so severe, often the only option is to alleviate the animals’ suffering and, if necessary, make humane decisions to avoid further suffering.

Prevention

To minimize the risk of infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. with the pseudorabies virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants. in cats, it is important to take preventive measures. One of the most effective methods of preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. is strict control over the cat’s food source. Cats should not receive raw meat from pigs or wildlife, as these often act as carriers of the virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants.. Cooking the meat kills the virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants. and makes it safe for consumption.

Furthermore, it is advisable to avoid contact between the cat and potentially infected animals. Especially in rural areas where the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. rate among wildlife may be higher, care should be taken to ensure that the cat does not go outside unsupervised. This reduces the risk of direct transmission through contact with infected animals.

Another important aspect of preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. is regular veterinary checkups. The veterinarian can detect early signs of a possible infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. and take appropriate measures. Educating pet owners about the risks and transmission routes of the pseudorabies virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants. also plays a crucial role in preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring.. Through awareness and implementation of these measures, the risk of infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. can be significantly reduced.

Outlook on current research

Aujeszky’s disease, also known as pseudorabies, is a viral infection that primarily affects pigs but can also attack other animal species such as cats. The virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants. is caused by Suid Herpesvirus 1 (SuHV-1). Current research focuses heavily on developing and improving diagnostic tests for early detection of the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease.. The challenge is that cats often show nonspecific symptoms that also occur in other diseases, making diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. difficult.

Another important area of research is the development of vaccines that can protect not only pigs but also other vulnerable animal species such as cats. Current studies focus on genetic modification of the virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants. to develop attenuated vaccines that triggerA trigger is a stimulus that elicits a specific reaction or state. In veterinary medicine, this can refer to emotional responses, such as fear or aggression, or medical conditions, such as seizures in dogs and cats. an immune responseAn immune response is the immune system's reaction to foreign substances (antigens), such as microorganisms or proteins. It involves a series of processes aimed at recognizing, fighting, and eliminating these antigens. without causing the disease itself. These vaccines could help contain the spread of the disease in mixed animal husbandry in the future.

Additionally, there are research initiatives examining the transmission of the virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants. between different animal species. The goal is to better understand the mechanisms of how the virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants. is transmitted from pigs to cats. This could help develop preventive measures to control the spread of the disease. Scientists are also investigating the genetic variability of the virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants. to determine whether certain strains are more aggressive than others or whether they prefer specific host animals.

Behavioral research examines how cats respond to infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. with the virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants. and which symptoms occur most frequently. These studies are crucial for improving the clinical diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. of the disease. They also help evaluate the effectiveness of new treatment methods, as there is currently no specific antiviral therapyTherapy refers to the treatment of diseases or disorders with the aim of alleviating symptoms, promoting healing, or improving quality of life. Therapies can be medicinal, surgical, or through other medical interventions. for cats. Research also aims to develop supportiveSupportive refers to supportive treatments that aim to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life without directly treating the underlying cause of the disease. care protocols that can improve the quality of life of infected cats.

Long-term studies examine the ecological and economic impacts of Aujeszky’s disease, particularly in regions where pig farming plays a significant role. By combining epidemiological data with economic models, researchers hope to develop strategies that prevent disease outbreaks while minimizing economic losses.

Another promising research approach is the development of genetic resistanceResistance refers to the ability of microorganisms to withstand the effects of antibiotics, antifungals, or other antimicrobial drugs. Resistance can also refer to the body's ability to be insensitive to diseases or toxins. to the virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants.. In pigs, there has already been initialInitial means beginning or at the start. In medicine, it can refer to the first symptoms of a disease or the first phase of a treatment process. progress, with certain genetic markers identified that are associated with increased resistanceResistance refers to the ability of microorganisms to withstand the effects of antibiotics, antifungals, or other antimicrobial drugs. Resistance can also refer to the body's ability to be insensitive to diseases or toxins. to the virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants.. These findings could be applied to cats in the future to breed resistantResistant means being insensitive to a substance, drug, or treatment. In dogs and cats, resistance can refer to the ineffectiveness of antibiotics against certain bacterial strains or the insensitivity of parasites to certain pesticides. populations.

Finally, there are interdisciplinary research projects examining the role of wildlife as a reservoir for the virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants.. Wild boars are known to carry and spread the virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants.. Understanding their role in the infectionAn infection is the colonization and multiplication of pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites in an organism, which often, but not always, leads to a disease. cycle is crucial for developing comprehensive control strategies. This research is often conducted in collaboration with conservation organizations to ensure that measures are consistent with the protectionProtection refers to safeguarding against diseases or harm. In veterinary medicine, this can include protecting animals through vaccinations, the use of parasite control products, or providing a safe environment. of wildlife populations.

In summary, research on Aujeszky’s disease is multidisciplinary and global, with the goal of both deepening understanding of the disease and developing practical solutions for its control and preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring.. Advances in geneticsGenetics is the science of genes, heredity, and the variation of organisms. It studies how genetic information is passed from generation to generation and how it influences the development, appearance, and behavior of living things., vaccineA vaccine is a substance that stimulates the immune system to develop immunity against specific pathogens without causing the disease itself. Vaccines may contain weakened or inactivated pathogens, toxoids, or recombinant antigens. development, and epidemiological modeling promise to significantly reduce the impact of this disease in the future.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is Aujeszky’s disease? Aujeszky’s disease, also known as pseudorabies, is a viral infectionA viral infection occurs when a virus enters the body and infects healthy cells, which can lead to disease symptoms. The severity and type of symptoms can vary depending on the type of virus. caused by Suid Herpesvirus 1. It primarily affects pigs but can also infect other animals such as cats.
How is the virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants. transmitted to cats? Cats can become infected through contact with infected pigs or by consuming infected meat. Direct contact with bodily fluids or excretions from infected animals also poses a risk.
What symptoms do infected cats show? Infected cats may show symptoms such as fever, itching, salivation, vomiting, and neurological deficits. The symptoms can be very nonspecific and mimic other diseases.
Is there a treatment for Aujeszky’s disease in cats? Currently, there is no specific antiviral treatment for cats. Care is limited to supporting symptoms and improving the overall well-being of affected animals.
Can Aujeszky’s disease be transmitted to humans? No, Aujeszky’s disease is not dangerous to humans. The virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants. does not infect humans and therefore poses no risk to human health.
How can the disease be diagnosed in cats? DiagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. is typically made through clinical observation and exclusion of other diseases. Laboratory tests can detect the virusA virus is a microscopic infectious particle that cannot reproduce on its own and must infect a host cell to produce new virus particles. Viruses can cause a variety of diseases in humans, animals, and plants. but are often complex and expensive.
Can cats be vaccinated against Aujeszky’s disease? Currently, there is no approved vaccineA vaccine is a substance that stimulates the immune system to develop immunity against specific pathogens without causing the disease itself. Vaccines may contain weakened or inactivated pathogens, toxoids, or recombinant antigens. for cats. However, research is working on developing vaccines that could provide protectionProtection refers to safeguarding against diseases or harm. In veterinary medicine, this can include protecting animals through vaccinations, the use of parasite control products, or providing a safe environment. in the future.
How can I protect my pet from Aujeszky’s disease? Avoid contact between your cat and wildlife and pigs. Do not feed raw pork and ensure that your pet does not consume waste from hunting or slaughter operations.
Is Aujeszky’s disease widespread in all countries? The disease is widespread worldwide, but prevalence varies greatly. In some regions, it is controlled through strict biosecurity measures and vaccinationVaccination is the process of administering a vaccine to develop immunity against a specific infectious disease. It is one of the most effective methods of prevention of infectious diseases. programs.
What should I do if I suspect my cat is infected? Contact a veterinarian immediately if you suspect your cat is infected. Early diagnosisA diagnosis is the identification of a disease or condition by its symptoms and/or results from diagnostic tests. It is the first step in the management and treatment of patients. and supportiveSupportive refers to supportive treatments that aim to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life without directly treating the underlying cause of the disease. care can help alleviate the animal’s suffering.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

1. What is Aujeszky's disease?

Aujeszky's disease, also known as pseudorabies, is a viral infection caused by Suid Herpesvirus 1. It primarily affects pigs but can also infect other animals such as cats.

2. How is the virus transmitted to cats?

Cats can become infected through contact with infected pigs or by consuming infected meat. Direct contact with bodily fluids or excretions from infected animals also poses a risk.

3. What symptoms do infected cats show?

Infected cats may show symptoms such as fever, itching, salivation, vomiting, and neurological deficits. The symptoms can be very nonspecific and mimic other diseases.

4. Is there a treatment for Aujeszky's disease in cats?

Currently, there is no specific antiviral treatment for cats. Care is limited to supporting symptoms and improving the overall well-being of affected animals.

5. Can Aujeszky's disease be transmitted to humans?

No, Aujeszky's disease is not dangerous to humans. The virus does not infect humans and therefore poses no risk to human health.

6. How can the disease be diagnosed in cats?

Diagnosis is typically made through clinical observation and exclusion of other diseases. Laboratory tests can detect the virus but are often complex and expensive.

7. Can cats be vaccinated against Aujeszky's disease?

Currently, there is no approved vaccine for cats. However, research is working on developing vaccines that could provide protection in the future.

8. How can I protect my pet from Aujeszky's disease?

Avoid contact between your cat and wildlife and pigs. Do not feed raw pork and ensure that your pet does not consume waste from hunting or slaughter operations.

9. Is Aujeszky's disease widespread in all countries?

The disease is widespread worldwide, but prevalence varies greatly. In some regions, it is controlled through strict biosecurity measures and vaccination programs.

10. What should I do if I suspect my cat is infected?

Contact a veterinarian immediately if you suspect your cat is infected. Early diagnosis and supportive care can help alleviate the animal's suffering.