FIV is a viral infection of cats. It is from the same family of
viruses as Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), the cause of AIDS in
humans. FIV is NOT contagious to humans, and HIV is not contagious
to cats. FIV is such an important virus because 14% to 29% of cats
are reported to be infected throughout Australia and it causes a
potentially fatal disease.
How do cats become infected?
Cats become infected with FIV mainly via bite wounds when fighting.
When pregnant, infected cats can pass the virus to their kittens
whilst they are still developing in the uterus. Once infected with
the virus, cats carry it around in their blood stream for the rest
of their life.
What are the signs of FIV?
Cats infected with FIV will show varying symptoms. Some cats will
not show any symptoms for several years, but as the immune system
becomes weaker over time some common signs of infection include
weight loss
poor quality coat
ulcers around mouth, lips and gums
loss of appetite
lethargy
What can be done to prevent / treat FIV?
Prevention of FIV is based around 2 major factors.
1. Limiting exposure to FIV
positive cats – cats remaining indoors or in a protective
enclosure to make sure there is no intermingling with intruders.
If any new additions to the family, it is recommended they are
tested prior to joining other cats. 2. Vaccination –
recently a vaccine has been produced that is an effective aid in
providing protection against FIV. Kittens can be vaccinated from
the age of 8 weeks, and require 3 doses initially, then 1 dose
each year with their regular vaccinations. Adult cats require
the same 3 doses initially, then continue with yearly boosters.
Testing adult cats prior to vaccination is recommended. The
vaccine has no effect on prior infection with FIV, it helps
prevent infection, it does not treat it.
There is no cure for FIV, so
prevention is the only way to combat this virus.
