What Are the Treatments for Feline Eye Herpes?

Feline eye herpes is an infection very common in cats. The infection is caused by the feline herpes virus. It is most common in young cats (kittens) and older cats (usually only one eye is affected). The virus is contagious, but is specific to cats, meaning it cannot be transferred to humans, dogs or other animals. Once your cat has been exposed to the virus they tend to build an immune response and you typically will not see another outbreak. However, recurrent outbreaks tend to happen after a stressful situation has occurred (examples are: moving to a new home, new animal introduced to the family, etc.).

Symptoms of the infection are similar to upper respiratory symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, and runny nose. In some cases loss of appetite does occur. Symptoms directly in the eye can also occur such as swelling, squinting, and discharge.

There are treatments available for the infection, but the key is to remain patient as the treatments do not kill the virus they only inhibit it, and relieve the symptoms and pain. In most cases it takes about one to two weeks to resolve, but in some cases it can take up to three weeks. Consult with your veterinarian about the best treatment option for your cat.

  1. Antiviral Treatments

    • Antiviral treatments come in drops or ointment forms. Examples of these drugs are: trifluridine, idoxuridine and vidarabine. These drugs will need to be used on a frequent basis (consult with your veterinarian for specifics) as they work on the DNA of the virus and disrupt its replication process.

    Antibiotic Treatments

    • Antibiotic treatments will be used if there is evidence of a secondary bacterial infection, and/or if herpetic corneal ulcers exist. Examples of these drugs are: tetracycline; chloramphenicol; erythromycin; and gentamicin. Consult with your veterinarian to determine if these drugs are necessary and instructions on how to treat your cat.

    L-lysine Treatment

    • L-lysine is an essential amino acid (protein building block). Scientific studies have shown it dramatically reduces the shedding of the virus and the duration of the infection. Studies have also shown it be effective with the human herpes virus. It is very safe to give and can be given over long periods of time. This should not be given as the sole form of treatment, but is best used in conjunction with other medical treatments. Consult with your veterinarian on dosage amounts and frequency. It is available in many forms such as capsule, tablet, oral paste, and powder (fish flavored). It should be given with food to avoid vomiting (if given on an empty stomach).