DVM Student Colorado State University CVMBS Fort Collins, CO, United States
Abstract: Background-Feline Chronic Gingivostomatitis (FCGS) is a debilitating condition of cats. Feline calicivirus (FCV) is an RNA virus that is over-represented in affected cats. Current treatment options, such as full-mouth dental extractions, are costly and only moderately effective. Molnupiravir inhibits replication of RNA viruses and recently has been widely used to treat SARS-CoV-2 and feline coronaviruses. Hypothesis/Objectives–The hypotheses were that administration of molnupiravir would decrease FCV shedding and induce clinical improvement in cats with FCGS that had failed full mouth dental extractions. Animals–A cat sanctuary provided review board approval to enroll 8, FeLV/FIV-negative, FCV-positive cats with FCGS in this pilot. Methods–The cats had no significant findings on a serum biochemical profile and were divided into a treatment group (n = 5) and a control group (n = 3). Stomatitis scores assigned using a standardized rubric, body weight, oral swabs for FCV PCR, and lesion photographs were collected prior to starting the study and then weekly. The treatment group was administered molnupiravir (10 mg/kg) orally twice daily for 4 weeks. Results–By week 4, improved lesion scores (4 of 5 cats) and decreased FCV shedding (2 of 5 cats) were noted in some of the molnupiravir-treated cats but none of the untreated cats (0/3). No side effects were noted. Conclusion and clinical importance – This molnupiravir protocol shows promise as a non-invasive treatment for FCV-positive cats with FCGS, potentially improving quality of life. Further research is needed to confirm its efficacy and broader applications in cats with FCV.
