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Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) or “Cat AIDS” is a viral infection that affects cats worldwide. The prevalence of the disease is hard to estimate, but different studies have shown a range between seven to 29 percent of sick cats to be infected with the virus.
The virus is mainly spread by cat fight wounds as it is in the saliva of infected cats.
Occasionally it has been spread by blood or contact with mucous membranes. Older cats that have been in many fights with other cats are the most at-risk animals.
Like the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), FIV causes a decline in the function of the cats’ immune system leaving it vulnerable to infections and disease.
A cat infected with FIV can show many types of clinical signs. These include lethargy, swollen lymph nodes, pale gums, lack of appetite and weight loss.
Many cats will not show any clinical signs for months or years. Eventually, the infections may overcome the damaged immune system causing severe illness or death.
Although there are many similarities between the Feline Immunodeficiency Virus and HIV, it is not possible for humans to be infected with FIV, or cats with HIV.
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A simple blood test is a very accurate way of telling if your cat has the virus.
This test only takes ten to fifteen minutes and is available at your vet.
FIV is not a death sentence. Many cats will go on to live long normal lives.
The chance of a FIV positive cat spreading the disease to another cat is very low as long as there isn’t any fighting or biting. Keeping the cat separated from other animals is the only way to guarantee the virus isn’t spread.
Fortunately a vaccine is available to help protect your cat from infection. The vaccine course requires three vaccinations over three months.
The other simple step to reduce the risk to your cat is to keep it indoors, especially at night.
It is important to remember in Logan City cats should be kept in an enclosure.
For more information and vaccination call Park Ridge Animal Hospital on 38001378
