What is FIV?
(Feline Immunodeficiency Virus)
Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) is a retrovirus. All retroviruses,
including Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) produce an enzyme
which permits it to insert copies of its own genetic material into the cells it
has infected - reproducing itself. The virus can be found in the cat's
saliva, blood, and other cells in the body.
How is it spread?
FIV is primarily transmitted though direct bite wounds. It can also be
transferred through litter boxes, and water and food bowls. FIV may be
transmitted from mothers to kittens.
Which cats are at high risk for FIV?
higher their risk.*
Is there a vaccine that protects cats from FIV?
Currently no, although efforts are underway. The best prevention is:
Symptoms:
-Urinary
-Respiratory
-Oral (ulcers, gingivitis)
How is FIV diagnosed?
A sample of blood is drawn and an ELISA test is performed. The ELISA
test screens for serum antibodies and usually takes 10 to 15 minutes.
The ELISA test also detects feline leukemia and FIV. We recommend
always testing all new cats before they are introduced to your
household.
How is it treated?
FIV is incurable, infected cats will carry the virus for the rest of their
lives. Steps need to be taken to isolate infected cats from uninfected
cats.
Although FIV is incurable, asymptomatic cats can live for many
years. Once an animal starts showing symptoms, antibiotics are used
along with other therapies.
More information:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Feline_immunodeficiency_virus
http://www.vet.cornell.edu/fhc/brochures/fiv.html
Disclaimer: Vista Animal Hospital makes sincere efforts to ensure the
accuracy of information posted on this website. VAH cannot and will not
be held responsible or liable for errors, inaccuracies or improper use of
information by the reader. Readers who rely on the information
contained on this web site or on other web sites accessed from this one
do so at their own risk and are advised to consult with their veterinarian
before acting on it.
*For More Information Please Contact Your Vet!*
(Feline Immunodeficiency Virus)
Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) is a retrovirus. All retroviruses,
including Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) produce an enzyme
which permits it to insert copies of its own genetic material into the cells it
has infected - reproducing itself. The virus can be found in the cat's
saliva, blood, and other cells in the body.
How is it spread?
FIV is primarily transmitted though direct bite wounds. It can also be
transferred through litter boxes, and water and food bowls. FIV may be
transmitted from mothers to kittens.
Which cats are at high risk for FIV?
- Households with multiple cats
- Households with outdoor cats
- Cats adopted from a shelter
- Intact male cats (because they are more likely to be in fights)
higher their risk.*
Is there a vaccine that protects cats from FIV?
Currently no, although efforts are underway. The best prevention is:
- Keep your cat(s) indoors
- Spay or neuter your cat(s)
- Have your cat tested for FIV, and always test new cats before
bringing them into your household.
Symptoms:
- Recurrent infections such as:
-Urinary
-Respiratory
-Oral (ulcers, gingivitis)
- Progressive weight loss
- Recurrent fevers of unknown origin
How is FIV diagnosed?
A sample of blood is drawn and an ELISA test is performed. The ELISA
test screens for serum antibodies and usually takes 10 to 15 minutes.
The ELISA test also detects feline leukemia and FIV. We recommend
always testing all new cats before they are introduced to your
household.
How is it treated?
FIV is incurable, infected cats will carry the virus for the rest of their
lives. Steps need to be taken to isolate infected cats from uninfected
cats.
Although FIV is incurable, asymptomatic cats can live for many
years. Once an animal starts showing symptoms, antibiotics are used
along with other therapies.
More information:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Feline_immunodeficiency_virus
http://www.vet.cornell.edu/fhc/brochures/fiv.html
Disclaimer: Vista Animal Hospital makes sincere efforts to ensure the
accuracy of information posted on this website. VAH cannot and will not
be held responsible or liable for errors, inaccuracies or improper use of
information by the reader. Readers who rely on the information
contained on this web site or on other web sites accessed from this one
do so at their own risk and are advised to consult with their veterinarian
before acting on it.
*For More Information Please Contact Your Vet!*
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