The Zhonghe Animal Shelter in New Taipei City recently took in a black kitten around 2 to 3 months old, named "Gigi." The kitten suffered from a severe feline herpesvirus (FHV-1) infection that caused adhesions between the right eyelid and conjunctiva. As Gigi grew to 6 months old, the shelter arranged surgery to treat the condition. Gigi successfully recovered, and the appearance and vision in her right eye gradually returned to normal. Recently, she was adopted by a loving owner and has begun a warm new life.

When Gigi first arrived at the shelter, she had symptoms such as constant sneezing, watery eyes, and nasal discharge due to a severe herpesvirus infection. The virus caused conjunctivitis in her right eye, leading to adhesion of the eyelid and conjunctiva. Shelter veterinarians immediately began treatment using medications and antiviral eye ointment. Although symptoms improved, her right eye could barely open. As she matured to 6 months old, veterinarian Chang You-An performed surgery to remove the adhesion and reconstruct the eyelid. With attentive post-op care, her eye healed well, and she regained normal vision and appearance.Due to a severe feline herpesvirus infection, Gigi's right eyelid became adhered to the conjunctiva. (Image: Provided by New Taipei Animal Protection Office)

Feline herpesvirus (FHV-1) is a DNA virus that affects cats&rsquo upper respiratory systems and is one of the core diseases prevented by vaccination. It particularly poses serious risks to kittens with immature immune systems and can even be life-threatening. Common symptoms include sneezing, runny nose, fever, and loss of appetite. The virus can also cause eye diseases like conjunctivitis and keratitis, and in severe cases, symblepharon&mdashadhesion of the conjunctiva and cornea&mdashleading to significant vision impairment. FHV-1 is only transmitted among cats and does not infect dogs or humans. It is strongly recommended that owners vaccinate their kittens to reduce the risk of infection.Gigi underwent surgery to remove the eyelid-conjunctiva adhesion and for eyelid reconstruction. (Image: Provided by New Taipei Animal Protection Office)

After enduring difficult treatment and care, Gigi made a full recovery and found a new home. Her story is heartwarming and reminds pet owners to pay close attention to their pets&rsquo health and schedule regular checkups.