Assessing Antiviral Drugs for Treating Feline Herpesvirus

Feline herpesvirus (FHV-1) is the most common cause of infectious eye disease in shelter cats, and in extreme cases can lead to blindness.  Many cats respond well to antiviral medications but response to these drugs is highly variable from cat to cat, making it hard to establish an effective strategy in shelter environments. Researchers will determine the best medication for FHV-1 in shelter cats. The team will use DNA sequencing techniques to assess for any viral resistance to medications and the impact of medications on secondary bacterial eye infections. Identification of an appropriate treatment strategy for cats affected by FHV-1 eye disease will help veterinarians better treat this extremely common, painful and potentially blinding condition in the cat population.