Feline Immunodeficiency Virus Symptoms and Treatments

Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV is a disease that attacks the cat's immune system, which then lays the cat open to susceptibility to any and all infections and diseases he might encounter. FIV only affects cats and does not jump species barriers, so you and your dogs will not catch it. It is sometimes referred to as feline autoimmune deficiency syndrome, or feline AIDS.

FIV is a blood-transmitted disease, and its most common mode of transmission is via a bite from an infected cat. It is unfortunately incurable; however it is possible for an infected cat to live a long and happy life if every precaution is taken to protect him from vulnerability to infections and diseases and to keep him away from other cats who may pass on any disease.

There is currently no specific medical treatment available in Europe although there is a vaccine that has been developed and is being used in the USA. However, it is not in widespread use, and the problems appear to be that because the virus has the ability to mutate, it is not certain that the current vaccine will ever be effective against all possible mutations of FIV. Additionally, when cats have been vaccinated they show up as positive to FIV, and this makes it very confusing when trying to establish which cats have been vaccinated and which are still active carriers. As yet there is no documentation system in place which can identify vaccinated and non-vaccinated cats unless all cats are microchipped, which is not feasible when dealing with feral colonies as well as domestic pets.

The main focus of care for a cat with FIV is protection from other cats. Some vets advocate bringing the cat in and helping them to adjust to being a house cat but this often proves difficult. If shelter is available for him to be kept away from other cats (or other cats away from him) that would be preferable, but cats are naturally inquisitive and territorial, and if they are used to being outside the fact of them being kept inside is likely to affect their health and bring on bouts of depression and behavioral changes.

If your cat is female and she has not yet been spayed, this is a sensible thing to do, not only for reducing the potential numbers of litters but she will not be involved in mating which can be a source of cat scratches and possible infections; similarly if your tom is neutered he is less likely to get involved in neighborhood fights for food, mates or territory and as a consequence is less likely to be in close contact with other cats.

Because FIV cats are susceptible to any illness that comes along it is vital that they has regular vaccinations, regular worming and parasite regimes, and regular veterinary checks for any signs of illness.

Many owners report that their FIV positive cats can live to a good age and that it really is simply down to protection and excellent care that can keep them with you for a long time.

Next article: Feline Distemper (Feline Panleukopenia) Symptoms and Treatments