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Bornavirus Infection (Infection with the Bornavirus) 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?

Non-urgent see a veterinarian within 2–3 days

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

Definition

Bornavirus 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 is a neurological disease caused by the Bornavirus, which affects the central nervous systemThe CNS (central nervous system) consists of the brain and spinal cord. It is responsible for processing information and controls most functions of the body and behavior. of animals and can lead to severe neurological disorders.

The most important facts at a glance

Bornavirus is an RNA 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. that causes neurological diseases in animals such as cats. It replicates in the nucleus of nerve cells and triggers inflammation in the brain. Transmission in cats is thought to occur through contact with infected body fluids, with wild animals potentially serving 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.. Symptoms include gait disturbances, back pain, ataxia, 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. of the hind legs. 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 difficult because the symptoms are nonspecific. Laboratory tests, such as the detection of Bornavirus RNA, are crucial for 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.. Treatment focuses on alleviating symptoms, as there is 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.. AnticonvulsantsAnticonvulsants, also called antiepileptic drugs, are medications used to control or prevent seizures. They are used in dogs and cats with epilepsy or other conditions that cause seizures. and anti-inflammatory drugsAnti-inflammatory drugs are medications that reduce inflammation. They can be divided into nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids and are used in dogs and cats to reduce Inflammatory conditions and Pain. are used. 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. varies depending on the severity of the symptoms, but it is often unfavorable. Preventive measures include limiting contact with wild animals, regular veterinary checkups, and a low-stress environment for cats. Research on bornavirus 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. is progressing, with a focus on the development of vaccines and antiviral therapies, as well as the investigation of transmission routes. Advances in basic research could lead to better treatment strategies and improve understanding of viralViral refers to viruses and their effects on the organism. Viral infections in dogs and cats can range from harmless colds to severe, life-threatening diseases. neurological diseases.

Causes

The Bornavirus is an RNA 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. belonging to the Bornaviridae family. It is primarily associated with neurological diseases and can infect a variety of mammals, including horses, sheep, and cats. The disease was originally discovered in horses and is named after the German city of Borna, where it was first described.

Bornaviruses replicate in the nucleus of nerve cells, thereby impairing their function. The exact pathogenesisPathogenesis describes the process of the origin and development of a disease, including the mechanisms that lead to the disease's symptoms and signs. 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. is complex and not fully understood, but it is believed that the viruses 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-mediated inflammatory response in the brain, leading to the observed neurological symptoms.

Transmission in cats is presumably through Contact with infected bodily fluids, although the exact mode of transmission is not yet fully understood. Some studies suggest that wild animals could serve 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.. Humans do not appear to be susceptible to the classical Bornavirus, although other Bornavirus strains could cause zoonoses under certain circumstances.

Symptoms

Very common symptoms:

Common symptoms:

Cats infected with the Bornavirus show a variety of neurological symptoms that can vary depending on the severity 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.. Common symptoms include Behavioral changes, disorientation, and movement disorders.

Many infected cats develop ataxia, a condition in which the coordination of muscle movements is impaired, resulting in clumsy movements or a wobbly gait. Other symptoms may include 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., convulsions, and head pressing, a behavior in which the cat presses its head against walls or other surfaces.

In some cats, Behavioral changes such as Aggressiveness or apathyApathy refers to a state of indifference and reduced interest or lack of emotional involvement in activities or events that would normally arouse interest. may also be observed. Symptoms often worsen over time, further impairing the health of affected animals.

Diagnosis

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. of a Bornavirus 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 is challenging, as the symptoms are non-specific and other neurological diseases can cause similar clinical signs. Therefore, a comprehensive clinical examination is required to rule out other possible causes.

Laboratory tests play a crucial role in 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.. A definitive 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. can be made by detecting Bornavirus RNA or specific antibodies in the blood, cerebrospinal fluidCerebrospinal fluid is a clear, colorless liquid that surrounds and protects the brain and spinal cord. It acts as a shock absorber and is involved in regulating the chemical environment of the CNS (central nervous system)., or tissue samples of the affected animal. Modern methods such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) are particularly useful for detecting viralViral refers to viruses and their effects on the organism. Viral infections in dogs and cats can range from harmless colds to severe, life-threatening diseases. RNA.

A histopathologicalHistopathological refers to the microscopic examination of tissue samples for the diagnosis of diseases. This technique is used to identify the specific characteristics of diseases at the cellular level in dogs and cats. examination of brain tissue can also provide evidence of a Bornavirus 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. by showing inflammatory changes and the presence of viralViral refers to viruses and their effects on the organism. Viral infections in dogs and cats can range from harmless colds to severe, life-threatening diseases. antigens. However, this method is usually applied post-mortemPost-mortem, also called postmortal, means "after Death." In veterinary medicine, it refers to examinations or autopsies performed to determine the cause of Death or diseases after an animal's Death..

Therapy

Currently, there is 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. approved for the treatment of Bornavirus infections in cats. Treatment therefore focuses on symptom relief and supporting affected animals.

Symptomatic treatments may include the use of anticonvulsantsAnticonvulsants, also called antiepileptic drugs, are medications used to control or prevent seizures. They are used in dogs and cats with epilepsy or other conditions that cause seizures. to control seizures or anti-inflammatory medications to reduce inflammation caused by 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.. 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 is also important to improve the quality of life for affected cats.

In some cases, experimental therapies or immunotherapies may be considered, but these approaches are often associated with uncertainties and require further research to confirm their efficacy and safety.

Prognosis and follow-up care

The prognosis for cats with a Bornavirus 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. varies greatly and depends on the severity of neurological symptoms as well as the responsiveness to supportiveSupportive refers to supportive treatments that aim to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life without directly treating the underlying cause of the disease. treatments. In many cases, 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 unfortunately unfavorable, as the disease is often progressiveProgressive describes a condition or disease that worsens over time. This term is often used to characterize the course of an illness that causes increasingly severe symptoms or damage. and can cause long-term neurological damage.

Some cats may achieve some stabilization of symptoms, especially if treatment is initiated early. However, a full recovery remains rare, and affected animals often require lifelong care.

Research into Bornavirus infections is advancing, and there is hope that future studies could lead to better treatment strategies that improve the prognosis for affected cats.

Prevention

To minimize the risk of Bornavirus 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, cat owners should take care to limit their pets’ contact with wild animals, as these can be 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.. A good way to achieve this is to keep cats indoors or supervise their outdoor activities.

Regular veterinary checkups are also important for monitoring the cat’s general health and detecting any signs 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. at an early stage. Cats should also be vaccinated against other common infectiousInfectious describes the ability of a pathogen to be transmitted from one individual to another and trigger an infection. It also refers to diseases caused by such pathogens. diseases to strengthen their 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..

Hygiene also plays a crucial role. Cat owners should ensure that their cat’s environment is kept clean, including regularly washing sleeping areas and food bowls. This helps to minimize the spread of pathogens.

Additionally, owners can take steps to minimize stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being. levels in their cats, as excessive stressStress refers to the state of an organism reacting to external stimuli or demands. In veterinary medicine, stress can have physical or psychological effects on animals, impacting their health and well-being. can compromise their 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.. A balanced diet and sufficient exercise also help to strengthen the natural 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.. These measures can significantly reduce the risk of a cat contracting a bornavirus 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..

Outlook on current research

Research into Bornavirus 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 has gained significant momentum in recent years, as more is learned about the effects and behavior 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.. Bornaviruses are a group of viruses that can infect the central nervous systemThe CNS (central nervous system) consists of the brain and spinal cord. It is responsible for processing information and controls most functions of the body and behavior. of animals and humans. In 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 particularly concerning because it can cause neurological disorders that often lead to Behavioral changes and, in severe cases, Death. Researchers worldwide are working to understand the mechanisms by which 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. invades the brain and what factors influence the severity of symptoms.

A major focus of current research is on the development of vaccines and antiviral therapies. While there are already promising 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. approaches, these are often still in the early phases of clinical trials. The goal is to develop both prophylactic and therapeutic vaccines that can not only 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. but also help infected animals. In parallel, research is being conducted on antiviral medications that can contain 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 already infected cats.

Another important area of research is the investigation of Bornavirus transmission routes. It is believed that 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 or via 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. environmental sources. The precise identification and control of these transmission routes could be crucial to prevent future outbreaks. Scientists use molecular techniques to study the genetic diversity of Bornaviruses. These studies help to understand 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. evolves and adapts over time.

In basic research, animal models are also used to investigate the pathogenesisPathogenesis describes the process of the origin and development of a disease, including the mechanisms that lead to the disease's symptoms and signs. 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.. These studies are crucial for unraveling the cellularCellular refers to cells or consisting of cells. In biology and medicine, it refers to processes, structures, or functions that occur at the level of individual cells. and molecular mechanisms by which 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. affects the nervous system. Advances in this area could not only reveal new therapeutic targets but also improve the understanding of how viralViral refers to viruses and their effects on the organism. Viral infections in dogs and cats can range from harmless colds to severe, life-threatening diseases. infections generally can cause neurological diseases.

In summary, research into Bornavirus 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 is a dynamic and multidisciplinary field. The results could not only improve the health of cats but also provide valuable insights for human medicine, as Bornaviruses can also infect humans. The coming years promise exciting developments that will hopefully lead to more effective preventionPrevention includes measures taken to prevent diseases or injuries. In veterinary medicine, this includes vaccinations, parasite control, and health monitoring. and treatment strategies.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is the Bornavirus and how does it affect cats? The Bornavirus is a 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. that can infect the central nervous systemThe CNS (central nervous system) consists of the brain and spinal cord. It is responsible for processing information and controls most functions of the body and behavior.. In cats, an 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 leads to neurological symptoms such as Behavioral changes, lethargy, and in severe cases, 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. or Death. The symptoms result from the inflammation and damage to brain tissue caused by 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..
How is the Bornavirus transmitted? It is believed that the Bornavirus is primarily transmitted through direct Contact, possibly through saliva, urine, or other bodily fluids. There is also evidence that the virus could be spread through 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. environmental sources such as food or water. However, the exact mode of transmission is not yet fully understood.
Which cats are most at risk of becoming infected with the Bornavirus? All cats can potentially be infected, but cats that live in groups or have access to outdoor areas may be at higher risk. In addition, young and old cats appear to be more susceptible to severe courses of the disease.
Is there a test to diagnose a Bornavirus 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? Yes, there are specific tests to detect an 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 Bornavirus. These tests are often based on the identification of viralViral refers to viruses and their effects on the organism. Viral infections in dogs and cats can range from harmless colds to severe, life-threatening diseases. RNA in blood or tissue samples. 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. can help to better manage the disease, even if there is currently no specific cure.
Can cats be vaccinated against the Bornavirus? 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. against the Bornavirus for cats. However, research is actively working to develop an effective 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. that could be used both preventively and therapeutically.
What treatment options are available for infected cats? The treatment of Bornavirus-infected cats currently focuses on symptom relief. This may include anti-inflammatory and anticonvulsantAn anticonvulsant is a medication used to prevent or control seizures and other types of neurological disorders associated with abnormal electrical activity in the brain. medications. Antiviral therapies are still under development, and there is currently no specific cure for 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 the Bornavirus be transmitted from cats to humans? There is no clear evidence that the Bornavirus is transmitted directly from cats to humans. Nevertheless, it is known that Bornaviruses can also infect humans, which is why precautions are advisable when handling infected animals.
How can I protect my cat from a Bornavirus 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.? 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., cat owners should avoid Contact between their animals and potentially infected cats and 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. environments. Good hygiene and regular veterinary check-ups are also important to monitor the cat’s health.
How common is the Bornavirus in cats? The prevalence of bornavirus in cats varies geographically. Some studies suggest that 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 more common in certain regions. However, its overall distribution is not yet fully known due to a lack of comprehensive epidemiological studies.
What symptoms should I look out for in my cat in order to detect a bornavirus 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. at an early stage? Watch out for neurological symptoms such as sudden behavioral changes, lethargy, coordination problems, or seizures. Unusual behavior should always be checked by a veterinarian to rule out the possibility of bornavirus 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. or other neurological diseases.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

1. What is the Bornavirus and how does it affect cats?

The Bornavirus is a virus that can infect the central nervous system. In cats, an infection often leads to neurological symptoms such as Behavioral changes, lethargy, and in severe cases, Paralysis or Death. The symptoms result from the inflammation and damage to brain tissue caused by the virus.

2. How is the Bornavirus transmitted?

It is believed that the Bornavirus is primarily transmitted through direct Contact, possibly through saliva, urine, or other bodily fluids. There is also evidence that the virus could be spread through contaminated environmental sources such as food or water. However, the exact mode of transmission is not yet fully understood.

3. Which cats are most at risk of becoming infected with the Bornavirus?

All cats can potentially be infected, but cats that live in groups or have access to outdoor areas may be at higher risk. In addition, young and old cats appear to be more susceptible to severe courses of the disease.

4. Is there a test to diagnose a Bornavirus infection in cats?

Yes, there are specific tests to detect an infection with the Bornavirus. These tests are often based on the identification of viral RNA in blood or tissue samples. Early diagnosis can help to better manage the disease, even if there is currently no specific cure.

5. Can cats be vaccinated against the Bornavirus?

Currently, there is no approved vaccine against the Bornavirus for cats. However, research is actively working to develop an effective vaccine that could be used both preventively and therapeutically.

6. What treatment options are available for infected cats?

The treatment of Bornavirus-infected cats currently focuses on symptom relief. This may include anti-inflammatory and anticonvulsant medications. Antiviral therapies are still under development, and there is currently no specific cure for the infection.

7. Can the Bornavirus be transmitted from cats to humans?

There is no clear evidence that the Bornavirus is transmitted directly from cats to humans. Nevertheless, it is known that Bornaviruses can also infect humans, which is why precautions are advisable when handling infected animals.

8. How can I protect my cat from a Bornavirus infection?

To minimize the risk of infection, cat owners should avoid Contact between their animals and potentially infected cats and contaminated environments. Good hygiene and regular veterinary check-ups are also important to monitor the cat's health.

9. How common is the Bornavirus in cats?

The prevalence of bornavirus in cats varies geographically. Some studies suggest that the virus is more common in certain regions. However, its overall distribution is not yet fully known due to a lack of comprehensive epidemiological studies.

10. What symptoms should I look out for in my cat in order to detect a bornavirus infection at an early stage?

Watch out for neurological symptoms such as sudden behavioral changes, lethargy, coordination problems, or seizures. Unusual behavior should always be checked by a veterinarian to rule out the possibility of bornavirus infection or other neurological diseases.