Ear rubbing and feline herpes?

Hi all,

I have an 8 year old red tabby cat. He's a sweetheart! However, he's got feline herpes that I'm treating with the lysine powder. Lately it's been very cold outside and he's come down with what appears to be a cold - clear runny nose and eyes, occasional loud sneeze. I'll admit that I haven't been as good as I should be with the lysine powder. Additionally, as of late (the past two days) he rubs at his ears. I've examined the inside of his ears and they are pink and clean with minimal ear wax. He seems to enjoy me gently massaging the base of his ears. A while ago I was given  an antihistamine by his vet to help dry him out PRN and I have given him one in the last hour. He's otherwise eating and drinking and behaving normally although he's been sleeping a bit more.

I've been looking up comfort measures on the internet and it's been said that humidity could help, like a steamy bathroom after a shower. Would that help him? Is this a result of my negligence with administering the lysine powder? If so, I feel terrible.

Get him back on the lysine, 500mg twice a day.  The ear thing sounds like allergies, especially since there's no discolored discharge in the sneezing or the eyes. Also, is he on a grain-free food?  That will help with the herpes as well.  Hope he feels better soon! 

Hi Stephanie. I definately agree that starting the lysine again is important. He is on a grain free dry food and special diet Friskies wet. Thanks for replying!