Feline FIV
Feline AIDS is an increasing problem in the cat community. The Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine’s Feline Health Center reports that up to three percent of cats in the United States are infected with FIV, or feline immunodeficiency virus. FIV is a scary illness that affects cats everywhere, but there are lots of ways to prevent its spread. If your pet has or contracts FIV, there are still plenty of methods to keep your feline healthy.
What is FIV?
FIV is a lentivirus, or “slow virus,” that may go undetected in cats for years. However, eventually the virus leads to immune deficiency that hurts the animal’s ability to protect itself against infections. Basic bacteria and viruses cats interact with daily may suddenly cause severe illness and secondary infections.
Can humans get it?
Many studies have been done on whether humans can catch FIV, and though the virus is similar to HIV in humans, it is species specific and will not spread to any species except cats.
How is FIV spread?
Bite wounds are the main cause of transmission. Casual contact does not appear to spread FIV, so household cats with good social structure who don’t fight have low risk. Sex and birth are not usually ways FIV spreads. However, since biting is a primary cause, cats who roam outdoors and interact with other outdoor cats are at a higher risk.
Should I have my cat tested?
You should have your animal hospital test your cat for FIV if the pet has spent time with untested cats, is newly adopted, has recently been exposed, if you’re considering FIV cat vaccinations or if your cat has never been tested. Yearly tests are recommended as long as your cat is exposed to potentially infected felines.
What if my cat has FIV?
It’s not possible to predict how long infected animals can expect to live, but many thrive for many years when given proper care. If you know your cat is infected, talk to your local pet clinic about the best ways to care for them and prevent the spread to other animals. LazyPaw Animal Hospitals works with plenty of cats who have FIV, and we are here to help you and your cat have the most quality time together possible.