* Description ( #tabs-1 )
This is an over the counter product - it does not require prescription.
What is feline herpes virus?
Feline herpes virus is an upper respiratory virus of cats. It is also known as rhinotracheitis virus. It is very
common among cats, especially in environments where there are multiple cats or new cats are constantly interacting.
The virus is spread through the air and replicates in the upper respiratory tract (nasal area, tonsils). The
conjunctiva of the eye is also affected during the primary infection. Clinical signs of infection include sneezing
and ocular and nasal discharge. In most cases the primary infection resolves with no residual ocular lesions.
However, depending on the age when the cat is affected, the serotype of the virus (infectivity or strength of
infection), and other factors, there may be various ocular signs. In very young cats, adhesions of the eyelids to
each other or to the cornea may occur. Adult cats may experience recurrent conjunctivitis or corneal ulcers. The
virus remains latent in the nerves that serve the eyes. When a cat is stressed or exposed to new serotypes (different
strains) of herpes virus, the ocular disease can recur. There is some evidence that eosinophilic keratitis,
plasmacytic-lymphocytic keratitis, corneal sequestrum, and some cases of anterior uveitis may be associated with
feline herpes virus infection.
How do cats get feline herpes virus?
Most cats are affected as kittens, contracting the infection from their mothers. Stray cats, multi-cat households,
and cats from households where new cats are constantly introduced are more likely to suffer infection. Feline herpes
virus is not contagious to dogs or to humans but only affects cats.
How is feline herpes virus diagnosed?
History and clinical signs can diagnose ocular diseases caused by feline herpes virus. Aside from history and
clinical signs, diagnostic tests for feline herpes virus include virus isolation, immunofluorescent antibody testing,
polymerase chain reaction testing, serology, and cytology. Testing can be expensive and is generally reserved for
specific cases. Tests that may not specifically detect the presence of herpes may be used to detect ocular disease
caused by herpes. These tests include a Schirmer tear test (measuring tear production), corneal staining, and
conjunctival biopsy.
How is feline herpes virus treated?
for feline herpes virus infections is nonspecific and generally directed at controlling secondary
bacterial infection. A topical antibiotic such as tetracycline or erythromycin may be prescribed for use in the eye.
Systemic antibiotics may also be prescribed. Oral L-Lysine is recommended by many veterinary ophthalmologists at a
dose of 250-500 mg twice daily. Lysine competes with another amino , arginine, that herpes virus must have in
order to reproduce. Lysine has been demonstrated to decrease the severity of ocular symptoms associated with herpes
virus infection (1) and reduce viral shedding during periods of disease recurrence (2). Depending on symptoms, other
medications such as topical antiviral drugs, topical polysuled glycosaminoglycans, topical nonsteroidal
anti-inflammatory drugs or topical interferon may be used. In some cases the ocular diseases resulting from feline
herpes virus may require surgical intervention. The key to managing the clinical signs associated with feline herpes
virus is controlling the cat's environment. Cats exposed to multiple cats (indoor-outdoor cats), cats in multiple
cat households, or cats that are frequently introduced to new cats are difficult to keep disease free. Reducing
stress by maintaining a stable routine is helpful in preventing recurrences of disease. Keep in mind that it is the
nature of the virus to see recurrences of the disease and periodic is often necessary.
DOSAGE: Each 1/4 teaspoon contains 250 mg of L-Lysine in a palatable base. The suggested dose for cats over 6 months
of age is 1/4 teaspoon given orally twice daily. The suggested dose for kittens under 6 months of age is 1/8
teaspoon given orally twice daily. Adjust dosage as needed.
Store at room temperature.
* Package Insert
* VIRALYS⢠POWDER
* Vet Solutions
* (L-Lysine)
* A Lysine Supplement for Cats
INGREDIENTS: L-Lysine in a palatable base.
INDICATION: For use in cats and kittens as a tional supplement for conditions responsive to Lysine.
DOSAGE: Each 322 mg (1 rounded scoop) contains approximately 250 mg of L-Lysine in a palatable base. The suggested
dose for cats over 6 months of age is 1 rounded scoop given orally twice daily. The suggested dose for kittens
under 6 months of age is 1/2 scoop given orally twice daily. Adjust dosage as needed. Each scoop is 1/8 tsp.
ADMINISTRATION: VIRALYS is a highly palatable powder that may be sprinkled over dry food or mixed with a small
a of canned food.
KEEP OUT OF THE REACH OF CHILDREN
SOLD EXCLUSIVELY THROUGH VETERINARIANS
Store at controlled room temperature