Feline herpesvirus is probably one of the most common causes of feline respiratory disease. How can animal shelters and rescue groups best treat it?

In a recent study published in the August 2016 issue of American Journal of Veterinary Research, authors looked at the anti-viral drug famciclovir. Because of unique characteristics of the drug itself, as well as species-specific drug metabolism of the cat, determining proper dosing of famciclovir can be extremely complicated.

In the study, researchers compared dosages of 30 mg/kg, 40 mg.kg, and 90 mg/kg, with frequency of every 8 or 12 hours every day for three days. They then examined samples of the cats’ tears and plasma to determine an optimal treatment protocol. They concluded, “The recommended dosage of famciclovir is 90 mg/kg every 12 hours for cats infected with feline herpes virus.”

The study abstract can be read at the link below. Subscribers can view the complete study for free; non-subscribers can purchase access, also at the same link.

Sebbag L, Tomasy SM, Woodward AP, et al. Pharmacokinetic modeling of penciclovir and BRL42359 in the plasma and tears of healthy cats to optimize dosage recommendations for oral administration of famciclovir. Am J Vet Res. 2016 Aug;77(8):833-45.