Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV)

FIV, the cause of Feline AIDS is not the same
virus as Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), the cause of human AIDS.

How Prevalent Is Feline AIDS?

Up to one in twelve cats in the United States tests positive for the disease (1). Actual infection rate can be higher in unhealthy cats. Outdoor cats are at the highest risk of disease. About 15% of cats that test positive for Feline Leukemia (FeLV) also test positive for FIV.

How Is The disease Contracted?

FIV is spread from cat to cat primarily through bite wounds, as the virus is shed in high levels through saliva. Outdoor cats are at higher risk for contracting the disease. The spread of FIV through watering bowls or grooming is unlikely. An actual bite woulnd is an integral part of the disease transmission. Although rare, it is possible for a mother to pass the infection on to her unborn fetus. Some risk factors for contracting the disease include:

• Fighting
• Time outdoors
• Contact with other cats (i.e. when boarding or at cat shows)
• Newly adopted
• Sickness

What Is Feline AIDS?

Feline AIDS is caused by infection with Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV). FIV causes a potentially fatal viral disease that interferes with the immune system of a cat. The virus lives in the blood of the infected cat and is carried in their system throughout their life. Infected cats may expose healthy cats with which they come in contact, most often by biting. Cats infected with FIV may remain healthy for up to 10 years. While some infected cats show now sign of disease, others may display such initial symptoms as

• fever
• loss of appetite
• diarrhea
• lethargy
• swollen lymph nodes

As the disease progresses, symptoms may occur such as...

• weight loss
• sores in and around the mouth
• eye lesions
• poor hair coat
• chronic infections

Eventually, the immune system becomes too weak to fight off other infections or diseases. As a result, the cat will die from one of these subsequent infections.

What Can I Do To Prevent Feline AIDS?

Vaccination is the best way to prevent the disease in at-risk cats. If your cat is vaccinated for leukemia because it has contact with other cats, you should also consider its risk factors for feline AIDS. There is no treatment or cure for an FIV infected cat. A vaccine is available that can aid in the prevention of infection by FIV. Along with vaccination, other health management measures include...

• limiting exposure of indoor cats to outdoor cats
• using caution when introducing a new cat to a multi-cat household
• having the new cat tested prior to joining the household
• isolating an aggresive cat from other cats

Why should I test my cat?

Early detection of infection will enable you to manage the disease, maintain the health of your cats, and will also help prevent the spread of infection to other cats. Without testing, there is no way to know whether your cat is infected. Without a diagnosis, your cat cannot be treated properly. The American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) recommends that all at-risk cats, sick cats and kittens should be tested. If you do not know the status fo your cats, it may carry and possibly spread the disease to other cats. Not only can you help your cat live a happy, healthy life, but youcan also help stop the spread of these two deadly diseases.

What if my cat does have FIV?

FIV and FeLV are manageable if detected early. With proper care, infected cats can live long and healthy lives. Your veterinarian can work with you to manage the infection through diet and preventive health care. You and your veterinarian can develop a plan that includes:

• Semiannual wellness visits
• A balanced, nutritional diet
• Watching for signs of other illnesses
• Spaying/Neutering of adults
• Maintaining your cat's vaccination program

References
1. JAVMA, Vol. 218, No. 8, April 15, 2001. "Feline practitioners recommend new FIV and FeLV testing guidelines, initiate public awareness campaign."
2. The National FeLV/FIV Awareness Project, sponsored by IDEXX Corporation.