Ocular Herpes

Question:

I am a foster mom for a purebred rescue group in Sacramento.  I have personally adopted a blue point Siamese five year old male and he had a very extreme case of Calici and Ocular herpes. He was tube fed for close to six weeks and was treated for the ocular herpes by a eye specialist.  Unfortunately his left eye ruptured and he has limited vision in his right eye.  He is on the road to recovery and after a couple of months is up to his normal weight.  I would like to put him on some holistic supplements to improve his immune system. It will be a lifetime of keeping this cat healthy.  He will most likely be a cat with reoccurring bouts of herpes.   I would like to order some support for him but not sure exactly what to purchase.  Any suggestion would be appreciated.  
Laurel F.

Answer:

Hello Laurel,

Thank you for your inquiry to Holistic Pet Info. Siamese are well known for respiratory and gastrointestinal problems. Being that he was tube fed as a kitten he is probably lacking the antibody immune support from his mother. This commonly results in a poor immune system with chronic infections throughout the life of the animal. I would recommend supporting his immune system with a good diet of high protein, moderate fat and low carbohydrate wet food (dry kibble has too much carbohydrate for the true carnivore cat.)

As an immune support and viral inhibitor, Virolyte is a good product to begin with to decrease the severity and occurrences of the herpes outbreaks. Other immune supplements that you can offer are Immugen and Vitammune. I would start with the Virolyte and watch his eating habits to see that he doesn’t loose his appetite. Referring regularly with a local holistic/ acupuncturist veterinarian would be ideal to monitor your Siamese’ health and progress.

Sincerely,
Colleen Smith DVM, CVA