L-lysine supplement for cats, for the management of FHV-1 infection.
Lysine administration has been shown to inhibit replication of the feline herpes virus FHV-1 and can be used in the management of FHV-1 infection.
LysineAid is a very palatable and easy to give gel specially developed for cats. Feline rhinotracheitis virus (feline herpes virus type 1 or FHV-1) causes acute respiratory illness. The virusaffects domestic and wild cats worldwide. FHV-1 is the most common viral infection affecting cats with an estimated incidence of 50% of household cats. Cats of all ages and breeds are susceptible, although it is more common in the following;
- Multi-cat households, catteries and pet adoption shelters, especially those with;
- Kittens, especially those born to infected mothers.
- Overcrowding.
- Physical (e.g temperature) or psychological (e.g introduction of a new cat) stressors.
- Poor nutrition, poor sanitation and poor ventilation.
- Pregnant cats that are lactating.
- Sick cats.
- Unvaccinated cats.
Management
Vaccinations are available for these viruses, and although not 100% effective in preventing disease, the vaccine can reduce the severity of the ”flu” and make it less likely to be passed on to other cats. Antibiotics are used to prevent secondary bacterial infections. Some veterinarians have found success with Interferon, which helps to boost the immune system. Positive results have also been found with the administration of L-lysine in a dosage of 250-500 mg twice a day. It has also been shown that L-lysine supplement in cats limits the intensity of both virus shedding and clinical signs of herpes virus infection*.
Mode of action
L-lysine is an amino acid which is naturally present in proteins and can play a key role in the management of herpes virus infection. It has been shown that during replication of feline herpes virus, an increase in L-lysine levels has inhibiting effects on the virus, as it competes with arginine (another amino acid) in the replication process.
* Source: J Am Vet Med Assoc 207: 599-603, 1995
