Our question this week was:

My cat has feline AIDS and my vet recommended that we treat him using AZT. I think that it is a common human aids medication. I’ve been told there are a lot of problems with that drug (side effects). What dose do you recommend?

Allen B. – Philadelphia, PA

Answer

Hi – thanks for your email. AZT is a drug also known as azidothymidine. Its use in cats with FIV has been associated with improvement in clinical signs and quality of life. I believe the most common dose of AZT used is 5 mg/kg (2.5 mg per pound) every 12 hours. Treatment with AZT can cause Heinz Body Anemia in some cats.

Best of luck!

Dr. Debra

To read most recent questions Click here!

Click here to see the full list of Ask Dr. Debra Questions and Answers!