For cat lovers whose pets have been diagnosed with feline immunodeficiency virus or FIV, the news can be devastating. Lentivirus, the virus that causes the disease, belongs to the same subfamily that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome or AIDS in humans. It is for this same reason that FIV is often referred to as ‘feline AIDS’. The disease is found in cats around the world. In the U.S. about 1% to 3% of cats have FIV; around the world, as many as 4% of cats have the disease.
FIV was isolated by researchers at the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine in 1986 and was initially known as Feline T-lymphotropic Virus.
Transmission of Feline Immunodeficiency Virus
The virus is usually transmitted by an infected cat to another through scratches and bite wounds. Once the virus enters the bloodstream, the animal becomes a carrier and may be able to transmit it to other cats as well. The virus may also be transmitted by a mother cat to its litter during pregnancy. However, casual contact through playing and exchange of saliva during food or water sharing is not considered a significant risk. Cats who are most at risk are those who spend time outdoors and who may be exposed to bite wounds through fights.
Is the virus infectious to humans?
FIV appears specific to cats and no evidence exists that there is a risk of cats transmitting it to humans.
Symptoms of Feline Immunodeficiency Virus
Once the virus enters the pet’s body through the bloodstream, it may either become inactive for some time, which explains why some cats may appear healthy and asymptomatic for many months or even years after infection. It is also possible for the virus to become active, later progressing to terminal illness.
Initially, the early phase of the disease may manifest itself in the form of fever and inflamed lymph nodes. As the disease progresses, it begins to affect the immune system of the pet. The cat becomes more susceptible to infections and may suffer from a variety of health issues such as weight loss, gum and tongue ulcers, anemia, diarrhea and eye disease. The weakened condition of the pet may also make it susceptible to cancer and other diseases.
Treatment of Feline Immunodeficiency Virus
No cure exists as of yet for FIV. However, it is not considered a death sentence for the infected pet since many cats live well for years after being diagnosed. Treatment is only given if infections occur, mainly to manage the symptoms and control the secondary disease.
Infected cats should also undergo thorough testing and diagnosis so a long-term treatment plan may be designed by the veterinarian. Regular visits to the vet can also help ensure that the pet receives the necessary medical attention when clinical signs appear. Since symptoms are frequently associated with a secondary disease, prompt treatment with the necessary medications and therapies may be given. Vets may also recommend vaccination against certain diseases in asymptomatic pets to help boost their immune system.
Prevention of Feline Immunodeficiency Virus
To prevent transmission of the disease, healthy cats that have tested negative should be kept indoors to prevent contact with possibly infected animals. If a pet tests negative, it may be best to keep it away from other healthy pets to avoid transmission. New cats should also be tested before they are brought home. Pet owners may also opt to have healthy cats vaccinated against FIV to significantly cut their risk of infection.
