Feline immunodeficiency virus, or FIV, is a slow-acting viral infection that severely weakens a cat’s immune system. Over time, the virus causes the immune system to deteriorate, which can lead to serious secondary infections and death. Cats with FIV are also at an increased risk for certain blood diseases, cancers, and kidney disease.
Feline immunodeficiency virus is typically transmitted from cat to cat through bite wounds, although some infected mothers pass the virus to their kittens. FIV does not appear to spread through casual or social contact with an infected cat, and the virus is not transmissible to humans. Outdoor cats are at much higher risk of contracting the virus than indoor cats.
Symptoms and Diagnosis of Feline Immunodeficiency Virus:
Some cats with FIV remain asymptomatic for years, but the virus will eventually trigger symptoms such as enlarged lymph nodes, anemia, fever, poor appetite, diarrhea, weight loss, dental disease, hair loss, chronic sneezing, and delayed healing. Other symptoms include conjunctivitis of the eye, mouth and gum inflammation, a persistent discharge from the nose or eyes, problems with urination, changes in behavior, and skin redness.
Veterinarians usually diagnose FIV based on your cat’s symptoms and medical history and on blood testing that looks for antibodies to the virus in your cat’s blood.
Kittens under the age of six months may test positive for FIV due to the presence of their mother’s antibodies in their blood. Kittens that test positive for FIV will need to be rechecked after their six-month birthday to determine their status. In the meantime, you must assume your kitten is infected, and keep him indoors and away from other cats.
Treatment of Feline Immunodeficiency Virus:
Unfortunately, no antiviral medications are available to treat feline immunodeficiency virus in cats. Treatment aims to prolong the period of good health, minimize symptoms of the disease, and prevent or treat secondary infections and other health complications.
Most cats with FIV are treated with one or more of the following: parasite control medications, immune-enhancing drugs, anti-inflammatory medications, pet medications and antibiotics to treat secondary infections, electrolyte solutions, and vitamin or mineral supplements for cats to ensure adequate nutrition.
Cats infected with feline immunodeficiency virus should be kept indoors at all times to protect other cats from infection and to reduce the likelihood of exposure to parasites, viruses, or bacteria. You must bring your cat to the veterinarian at least twice each year for a full evaluation, blood tests, and urinalysis.
FIV is not a death sentence; most cats infected with feline immunodeficiency virus that remain indoors in a calm environment, eat a well-balanced diet, and receive prompt care for secondary infections can live comfortable, happy lives for many years.