What is Feline AIDS?

Feline AIDS is caused by an 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 its system throughout its life.

I nfected cats may expose healthy cats with which they come into contact, most often by biting.

Cats infected with FIV may remain healthy for up to 10 years. While some infected cats show no sign of disease, others may display initial symptoms such as:

• Fever
• Loss of appetite
• Diarrhoea
• Lethargy
• Swollen lymph nodes

As the disease progresses, symptoms may occur such as:

• Weight Loss
• Sores in the mouth
• Eye problems
• Poor coat
• Non-healing sores

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.

How is the disease contracted?

FIV is spread from cat to cat primarily through bite wounds, the virus being shed in high levels through saliva. Outdoor cats are at a higher risk for contracting the disease.

The spread of FIV through watering bowls or grooming is unlikely. An actual bite wound is an integral part of the disease transmission. Here on the Redcliffe Peninsula, approximately 20% of cats test positive to the disease.

What can I do to prevent feline AIDS?

Vaccination is the best way to prevent the disease in at-risk cats. 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. Talk with us about the best way to protect your feline mates.

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