FELINE IMMUNODEFICIENCY VIRUS (FIV)

FIV is a virus that attacks a cat’s immune system, causing it to have a weakened ability to combat infection and disease. FIV is often compared to HIV infection in humans because both viruses affect the immune system.

Over time, the virus causes progressive damage to the feline immune system. Cats can remain asymptomatic for many years while their immune systems continue to weaken. The first sign of serious illness will usually be chronic recurrent infections, dental issues, or a host of chronic health issues once the immune system is seriously damaged.

Causes and Transmission

The cause of FIV is a retrovirus that is transmitted to other cats via a deep bite wound. Most commonly, cats are exposed to the virus after being bitten by an infected cat. This exposure allows the infected saliva to enter the victim’s bloodstream, which results in the infected state of the new cat.

Main Transmission Routes

• Deep bite wounds from an infected cat (the primary route of transmission).
• Less frequently from a female cat with FIV to her kittens during pregnancy or lactation.
• Very rarely from prolonged close contact.

Symptoms

Most cats will have little to no clinical signs of FIV for many years after the cat has been infected. Once clinical signs do occur, they are generally due to the effects of a compromised immune status.

Early or Mild Signs

• Mild Fever
• Swollen Lymph Nodes
• Temporary Loss of Appetite
• Lethargy

Later or Chronic Signs

• Recurring infections (Skin, Respiratory, or Urinary)
• Bad Coat Condition
• Weight Loss
• Chronic Fever
• Long term Diarrhea
• Gingivitis/Dental Disease
• Wounds That Heal Slowly

As symptoms are non-specific, many times FIV goes undetected until secondary infections begin occurring frequently.

Risk

Most health problems associated with FIV result from its effects on the immune system rather than direct damage caused by the virus itself.

As your pet’s immune status continues to deteriorate, their likelihood of developing secondary infections from bacteria, viruses, or fungi increases dramatically.

Secondary bacterial, viral and fungal infections are very common and can potentially develop into chronic conditions. A significant number of pets also develop chronic dental disease, which can lead to difficulties while eating and a reduced quality of life.

Eventually, long term immune suppression can make it difficult for even minor wounds or illnesses to recover and could eventually progress to serious illness.

Diagnosis

FIV can be diagnosed by performing antibody tests using blood samples from cats suspected of having the disease. The first step in diagnosing a cat with FIV is typically performing an ELISA test at your local veterinarian’s clinic. It is relatively easy and inexpensive.

If the ELISA test is positive, then additional testing may be required to confirm the diagnosis. Confirmatory testing may include PCR testing or other laboratory methods, depending on the cats age, vaccination history and clinical situation. They are used primarily in kittens because kittens have been known to carry their mother’s antibodies without actually having the disease themselves.

Testing for FIV is recommended for all cats with an unknown medical history who spend time outdoors or frequently suffer from multiple illnesses.

Treatment

There is currently no cure for FIV, but an appropriate regimen of care and management enables cats that have contracted this infection to survive for many years. The focus of treatment is directed toward managing the symptoms of the infection and protecting against secondary bacterial or fungal infections (as opposed to eradicating the virus).

Medical Management

The veterinarian will administer antibiotics, antifungals, etc., based on the type of infection that has occurred. Antiviral medication and/or supportive therapy for the immune system may be administered in some instances; however, these agents do not always produce the desired results. Pain relievers/anti-inflammatories may be necessary, particularly if dental disease and/or chronic inflammation exist.

Supportive Care

The maintenance of quality of life through supportive care plays an essential role in the long-term management of FIV-infected cats:

• Food high in nutrients and rich in antioxidants to help maintain healthy immune systems.
• Routine visits to your veterinarian to monitor your cat for signs/symptoms of secondary infections
• Maintenance of good oral health through regular dental cleanings to reduce the progression of oral diseases.
• Treatment of any minor infections promptly after they develop.
• Supportive care to minimize stress. Stress can exacerbate the decline in immunological function that has already occurred due to FIV infection.

With continued supportive care, many FIV-positive cats remain clinically stable for long periods of time.

Prevention

Behavioral modification through the avoidance of infected cats and the reduction of fighting among cats is the primary method of preventing transmission of FIV.

One of the most efficient methods of prevention is keeping your cat indoors.

Neutering of male cats eliminates territorial aggression, thus minimizing the likelihood of transmission via biting.

Limiting your cat’s interaction with stray or unknown cats will reduce the opportunity for exposure.

In multiple cat households, gradual introduction and screening/testing of new additions are recommended.

Because vaccination is not commonly used for FIV prevention, reducing exposure to infected cats and preventing fighting remain the most effective ways to lower the risk of transmission.