What can I do for a cat that has Chronic feline herpes virus? She is currently taking homeopathic drops, l-lysine now. Her nose runs all the time.
Thanks.
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What can I do for a cat that has Chronic feline herpes virus? She is currently taking homeopathic drops, l-lysine now. Her nose runs all the time.
Thanks.
I feel that I have had a lot of kitties improve from receiving the intranasal herpes virus vaccination. It seems to stimulate local immune response and decrease the sneezing the the need for “Kitty Kleenex”. I also often use some herbal formulas from certain Health Concerns Chinese Herbs but would need to have that kitty seen by a Chinese Herbalist Vet to determine if it was the right product.
Dr. Rebecca Verna
VCA Healthy PAWS Medical Center
Haymarket, VA
Without seeing your cat, I can recommend having your cat also be checked for a polyp. They grow from the middle ear and can end up in the nasopharyngeal space. This causes a chronic nasal discharge that is not very responsive to medication. I have not seen many, but have removed 3-4 on the past 8 years, including 1 from a kitten just a month ago (who is now doing very well). You might have your cat tested for the viruses to verify the presence of herpes (most large veterinary labs can do this). This allows you to know what you need to treat, and you might try more aggressive antiviral medications. The l-lysine is a good start (500 mg/day is best).
Good luck with your kitty.
Dr. Lori
Lori L Coughlin, DVM
Lori L Coughlin, DVM
Arlington Heights, IL
This condition is very frustrating. Many different treatments have been tried and none have been consistently successful. A feline herpes virus infection is not curable. And often it is difficult to control the symptoms that persist. You don’t say whether other possible causes of the nasal discharge have been considered. Allergies, fungal infections, polyps, tooth disease, to name a few can all cause a runny nose. So, the first step is a thorough diagnostic workup to make sure the Herpes rhinitis (nasal inflammation) is the correct one, since treatments will be different. If it is herpes, sometimes periodic antibiotic therapy will help. FOr congestion, short term use of pediatric nasal decongestants may help. Ask your veterinarian about other possible causes if you haven’t already. If the diagnosis of herpes is the most likely, then ask about the use of antibiotics or other medications to help the symptoms you are seeing.
Marla J. McGeorge, DVM
The Cat Doctor
Portland, OR
You might want to consider adding Interferon for the pet. This is an immune system booster that might help prevent future flare-ups and problems.
Hope this helps.
Dr. Mark Helvie
Dahlonega Veterinary Hospital
Georgia
You read my thoughts. The information is very helpful for my pet’s condition. I’ll try it out and let you know what happens.