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This is an over the counter product - it does not
require prescription.
Description: Viralys (L-Lysine) Oral Powder For Cats Feline
Herpes Virus 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