FIV: Is Your Cat at Risk of Contracting the Feline Immunodeficiency Virus?

Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) also called Feline AIDS, was first discovered in 1987. Sadly thousands of cats test positive for this incurable virus every year. When add the millions of cats that either never see a Veterinarian, or do not see a Vet on a regular basis into the equation, you can only imagine how many cats are truly infected with FIV. The virus is sometimes called Feline AIDS due to the fact that the virus has similarities with the AIDS virus humans contract. However, FIV is species specific, so humans are not at risk of contracting AIDS from a cat that test positive for FIV. Unfortunately, FIV is not only incurable, it is also unpreventable, and is a terminal illness.

FIV is most commonly spread when cats fight, or play to rough. This can something happen during mating, or defending it's territory. When a cat is bitten by another cat, there is a risk involved. If the one who bites is FIV positive, then the virus can be spread to the one who was bitten. Because FIV slowly attacks the cats immune system in a process called incubation, it can take up to two years after a cat has become infected before it test positive for FIV, and up to six years before the cat show any symptoms of the virus.

Owning a cat with FIV is completely safe for humans. However, owning non-infected cats could put them risk of becoming infected. It is safe for a FIV positive cat to share water and food bowl, as well as a liter box with a non-infected cat without passing the virus on. But, as we all know cats will play, and that playful bite could spread the virus to non-infected cats in the home. That is why it is best to either only have a single cat who is FIV positive, or several cats FIV positive in one dwelling.

Female cats who are FIV positive can pass the virus to her unborn kittens. Because the virus is terminal, you should have all FIV positive cats fixed to prevent the virus from spreading. If breeding does occur, there is still hope. Some kittens will test positive after birth but, later test negative. On that same note, some kittens test negative at birth, and later test positive. Testing for FIV involves simple blood work that any Veterinarian can do, and it does not harm the cat at all. Kittens that are born from a FIV positive mother should be tested at 5 weeks, and again at 2 months of age.

Because it can take up to six years for a cat to show signs of the virus, there is no need to have the animal put to sleep right away. A cat with FIV can live many years without illness, and bring lots of joy to its owners. Signs and symptoms of FIV differ from cat to cat. The most common sign is gum infections, hair loss, and wounds that become infected, or take longer to heal. More serious signs include untreatable diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss, and complete loss of appetite. The end result of FIV is ultimately organ failure, and death.

There are ways you can help slow the process of FIV. Your Veterinarian might prescribe antibiotics, steroids, and other medications. There is also holistic medications that can help build your cats immune system. Other ways that you can help your cat is make sure you take them to a Veterinarian regularly, keep them on a healthy diet, and keep there environment as clean as possible. This means scooping the liter box every time they use it, and changing the liter completely every other day. Also, make sure the cat does not go outside, and his bedding is washed at least once a week. You will also need to have the Vet clean your cats gums regularly to keep down gum infections.

Owning a cat that is FIV positive is not a bad thing. It takes a special person to open their home, and heart to an ill animal. As horrible as this virus is, there is some positive aspects. Because FIV and AIDS found in humans are so similar, scientists are working on a vaccine, and cure to perhaps someday wipe out both viruses. As for now the best medication you can give a FIV positive cat is TLC.