HENDERSON, Nev., March 27, 2016 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- A Cat Hospital, a Henderson veterinary clinic serving the greater Las Vegas area, recently launched a campaign to raise awareness about the benefits of prescribing Interferon for sick cats. Staffed by Henderson veterinarians Dr. Trish Auge, Dr. Heather Zamzow and Dr. Brian McAllister, the clinic hopes that their efforts to educate clients about this medication will allow them to serve their pets better. "Although it was originally developed for humans, Interferon is one of the most effective medications that we have to help cats fight a variety of conditions," said Dr. Auge. "Many clients have never heard of it, so we're promoting its benefits to raise awareness."
An immune system booster, the type of Interferon that is prescribed for cats is a dilute form of the human version. While it's typically delivered to humans via injection, it is used orally in felines. The only time that it should be administered to cats is under the supervision of a veterinarian. "Interferon is overwhelmingly safe," said Dr. McAllister, "but like any medication, it should only be given to cats when it has been prescribed by a veterinarian."
Interferon is most commonly prescribed to treat respiratory disease in cats. When a cat is suffering from a viral infection with symptoms like sneezing, nasal congestion, fever and runny eyes, the medication may reduce the severity of those symptoms and shorten the duration of the illness. At the same time, it often makes cats more comfortable while they are fighting such illnesses, which helps them overcome them even more easily. "Interferon's main claim to fame is that it bolsters immune system functioning," said Dr. Zamzow. "We can't speak highly enough of what it can do under the right circumstances," she added.
This medication is also prescribed for gum diseases and stomatitis, which include infections of the gums and bad breath in cats. Viruses are known for causing a significant amount of inflammation in cats. The immune-boosting properties of Interferon help to decrease inflammation, which helps significantly when gums are infected. It may be prescribed over the short-term for respiratory infections and the like, or it may be prescribed for months at a time to help treat and manage chronic conditions. Many times, veterinarians recommend an on-off cycle when using this medication for chronic or longer lasting conditions.
The veterinarians of A Cat Hospital hope that in raising awareness about Interferon for cats, they will help cat owners better understand the many treatment options that are available. "Even if Interferon doesn't cure a cat's underlying illness, it will reduce the severity of the cat's symptoms, making them feel a whole lot better while the illness runs its course," said Dr. Auge. "We have noticed any side effects, so this is a safe option for your feline friends.”
A Cat Hospital is located in Henderson and may be reached by calling (702) 454-4400.