L-Lysine supplements are commonly used to help reduce symptoms in cats with feline herpes virus. Feline herpesvirus (FHV, FHV-1) is a highly contagious virus that is one of the major causes of upper respiratory infections or cat flu in cats. It is an airborne virus that spreads easily and can be passed from one cat to another by direct contact or even contact with an infected food and water bowls, even when the infected cat isn’t experiencing symptoms. Once a cat is infected with the feline herpes virus they carry it for life and may experience flare-ups of the illness. Some of the common symptoms of Feline Herpes Virus Include:
- Discharge from eyes or nose
- Nasal congestion
- Sneezing
- Fever
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Excessive blinking
- Squinting
- Throat and mouth sores
- Breathing problems
Feline Herpes Virus is a major cause of upper respiratory disease in cats and also affects the health of the eyes. It can even cause damage to the eyes if the infection is severe or left untreated. It can cause conjunctivitis, which is the inflammation of the tissues that line the eyelids and surround the eyes. Keratitis, which is inflammation and infection of the cornea, can lead to corneal ulcers, corneal scarring, or chronic ‘dry eye’ (keratoconjunctivitis sicca or KCS). Learn more about feline herpesviral conjunctivitis.
L-Lysine is a type of essential amino acid that has been used to help stop the spreading and progression of feline herpes virus in cats. Lysine is a natural amino acid used by the cells in the body which interferes with the replication of the virus by blocking its use of arginine, another type of amino acid. By providing a L-Lysine supplement, it may help slow the infection from worsening in your cat and reduce future outbreaks.
Optixcare L-Lysine chews may help reduce the severity and frequency of feline herpes outbreaks, and support eye health for your cat. It may also reduce the symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections Each chew contains 500 mg of lysine and has a tasty, chicken flavor cats will enjoy.
Duralactin L-Lysine paste helps support eye and respiratory health in cats. L-lysine also helps reduce the replication of the feline herpes virus and may reduce outbreaks in infected cats. It contains natural antioxidants and essential Omega fatty acids. Duralactin also includes MicroLactin, a dried milk protein from hyperimmunized cows, to help manage inflammation.
Have you ever used an L-Lysine supplement for your cat? If so, leave us a comment below!