Specific antiviral treatments are not generally available for colds and flu, Treatment is aimed at controlling secondary bacterial infection (with antibiotics) and stimulating eating and drinking as, particularly dehydration, is a major cause of worsening disease. Antiviral ointment (e.g., acyclovir) used to treat herpes virus infections in people (cold sores, fever blisters) has been used in cats, generally the response is not as good and the drug needs to be used early in the course of infection. Its use tends to be restricted to treatment of FHV-1 outbreaks in colonies of cats. Topical antivirals include Idoxuridine and Betadine eye drops. L-lysine (an amino acid) works to prevent future attacks in some cats. L-lysine can be purchased over-the-counter at health nutrition stores.

Any health care information here are NOT to replace a veterinarian visit; please take your cat to a vet immediately at any sign of odd behavior or any symptoms of illness or injury.