Researchers from Jagiellonian University have developed a novel drug for upper respiratory tract inflammation disease in cats, called “cat’s runny nose” or “cat flu”. Field tests show promising results with no adverse effects.
Feline distemper is thought to be one of the common causes of deaths in animal shelters and catteries. It caused by the feline viruses FHV-1 or FCV, is very common and manifests itself with coughing, sneezing, runny nose, redness of the eyes, fever or the appearance of purulent secretions discharge from nose and eyes, among other symptoms.
Despite the widespread nature of the disease, current treatments are primarily symptomatic and focus on preventing secondary bacterial infections. The university has announced that a product developed by UJ researchers is expected to be available on the market soon to help treat cats with viral upper respiratory tract inflammation.
In 2021 the Jagiellonian University signed a licence agreement with the Acatavir company for the development of a product to be used in veterinary medicine in cat flu treatment and prevention. Actavir was founded by JU scientists: Aleksandra Synowiec and Prof. Krzysztof Pyrć from the Małopolska Centre of Biotechnology as well as Prof. Maria Nowakowska and Prof. Krzysztof Szczubiałka from the Faculty of Chemistry.
Field tests conducted on 26 cats suffering from acute and chronic cat flu showed significant improvement in viral load and symptoms, with no adverse effects reported. This innovative technology, now being further developed by Vet Planet, is expected to be available on the market soon, offering a much-needed solution to a common and deadly feline disease.
Source:
Nauka w Polsce
https://en.uj.edu.pl/en_GB/news/-/journal_content/56_INSTANCE_SxA5QO0R5BDs/81541894/156619649
https://polanddaily24.com/jagiellonian-university-develops-cure-for-cat-flu/science-health/44738
