What is it?

Feline immunodeficiency virus is a slow-developing virus that weakens a cat’s immune system, much as AIDS affects humans. About 3% of cats in the US are infected with FIV. Transmission among cats is spread through their saliva, usually through deep bites; it is not spread in food, water, or litter boxes. Also, FIV does not infect humans. (FIV is different from feline leukemia virus, or FeLV).

The Most Common Symptoms

1. Chronic diarrhea
2. Swollen gums and periodontal disease
3. Runny nose and cough

While a blood test can show if your cat has FIV, there is no known cure. There is now a vaccine available, called Fel-O-Vax FIV, which is initially given in 3 separate doses to a kitten, and then yearly afterwards. It successfully protects 84% of cats from infection; it is of no use in already infected cats. Please check with your vet.

Risk Factors

1. Gender – male cats that roam and fight
2. Cats that go outdoors
3. Adulthood – the average age of infected cats is 5 years
4. Other illnesses – 15% of cats with other diseases also have FIV

Progression of FIV is extremely variable. Infected cats may show symptoms within months, or show no symptoms for many years. In fact, they may live 5-10 years after being diagnosed, especially if kept indoors in a one-cat household. There’s a good chance they may stay healthy as pets for a long time, posing no danger to their owners.