Pet Forum / Miscellaneous / Animal Health / August 2004

I am hoping someone can direct me to a source of current information on
the treatment, and search for a cure, of FLV.  I've found many sources
of information describing symptoms, and prevention, but very little on
the treatment to maintain good quality of life.  Many sites are
outdated and I haven't found one that tells of current studies or
trials with a cure as the goal.

Ten months ago my husband and I rescued a litter of six 2 1/2 week old
kittens, (our home is full of rescued animals!).  The poor little
angels had been abandoned in a box in front of a spay/neuter clinic
near our home.  They were close to death, but everyone pulled through.
Three had been adopted, and we kept three.  About two months ago we
lost one of the kittens from a tumor on his lungs.  That was when we
discovered that the kittens were FLV+ , and had probably been born that
way.  All of the remaining kittens are asymptomatic except one.
Princess Grace has been battling what we suspect are viral infections
(her condition improves with the use of antibiotics).  All of them have
also been put on Lysine (250mg daily) and vitamin C.  I've heard about
the use of interferon and would like to know more about how it works
and the most optimal time to begin administering it.  Please, if there
is anything you can tell me about combating this terrible disease I
would be very grateful.