Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) is a significant health concern for cats worldwide, affecting an estimated 2-5% of cats in North America, according to the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP). Understanding FIV—its transmission, symptoms, testing, and management—can help cat owners make informed decisions about their pets’ care.
What Is FIV?
FIV is a retrovirus that attacks a cat’s immune system, leaving them vulnerable to secondary infections. Similar to HIV in humans, FIV does not directly cause death but weakens the immune response over time, potentially leading to chronic illness—sometimes referred to as feline AIDS.
The virus is primarily spread through deep bite wounds, making unneutered male cats who fight at higher risk. Less commonly, it can be transmitted from an infected mother to her kittens or through contaminated blood transfusions. Casual contact, such as grooming or shared food bowls, is unlikely to spread the virus.
Symptoms of FIV
Since FIV suppresses the immune system, symptoms vary depending on secondary infections. Common signs include:
- Enlarged lymph nodes
- Persistent fever
- Weight loss and poor appetite
- Chronic diarrhea
- Recurring infections (urinary, respiratory, or skin)
- Mouth inflammation or dental disease
- Neurological issues (e.g., seizures)
Because these symptoms overlap with other conditions, cats with recurring illnesses—especially outdoor or previously injured cats—should be tested for FIV.
Testing and Diagnosis
FIV testing typically involves an ELISA blood test, which detects antibodies. However, false positives and negatives can occur:
False negatives may arise if testing is done too soon after exposure (antibodies take 8-12 weeks to develop) or in late-stage FIV where antibody production declines.
False positives can occur in kittens under six months old due to maternal antibodies. Retesting after six months or using a PCR test (which detects viral DNA) is recommended.
The AAFP advises testing all new cats, especially before introducing them to a household, and retesting after potential exposures (e.g., bite wounds).
Managing FIV-Positive Cats
While there is no cure, FIV-positive cats can live long, healthy lives with proper care:
Keep indoors to prevent infections and fights.
Schedule biannual vet checkups and annual blood/urine tests.
Maintain vaccinations and parasite prevention.
Feed a balanced diet (avoid raw food due to infection risks).
Monitor for illness—early treatment of infections is critical.
Antiviral drugs like zidovudine (AZT) may help in severe cases, particularly for neurological or oral inflammation symptoms.
Is FIV Contagious to Other Cats?
FIV is not transmissible to humans or other animals, but it can spread between cats via bites. Cohabitation with non-aggressive, FIV-negative cats is possible if introductions are controlled to prevent fighting. However, the AAFP recommends segregating FIV-positive and negative cats in multi-cat households.
Life Expectancy and Outlook
With proper care, many FIV-positive cats live normal lifespans. The disease progresses in three stages:
Acute phase (1-3 months post-infection): Mild, often unnoticed symptoms.
Asymptomatic phase: Can last years; the cat appears healthy but carries the virus.
Clinical phase: Chronic infections emerge due to immune decline.
Euthanasia is not necessary solely for an FIV diagnosis—only when quality of life declines due to untreatable illness.
Vaccination Considerations
An FIV vaccine exists but is not available in the U.S. or Canada and is not widely recommended due to variable efficacy and interference with testing. Discuss options with your veterinarian.
Key Takeaways
Test new cats and those with recurring illnesses.
Keep FIV-positive cats indoors and monitor their health closely.
Separate FIV-positive and negative cats to prevent transmission.
With proper management, many FIV-positive cats enjoy a good quality of life.
By understanding FIV risks and prevention, cat owners can ensure their pets stay healthy and happy for years to come.
Related topics:
