Transmission of Feline FIV
Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) is primarily transmitted through blood, especially via bites during fights between cats. Although uncommon, in-utero transmission is also possible.
General Information
FIV is more prevalent in unneutered male cats with outdoor access. These cats frequently engage in territorial fights, significantly increasing the risk of virus transmission.
Clinical Signs
Symptoms associated with FIV may appear several months or even years after infection. However, in some cases, clinical signs emerge within 6 to 8 weeks following exposure.
Primary clinical signs include:
- Fever
- Leukopenia (reduced white blood cells)
- Neurological symptoms
- Secondary infections
- Secondary cancers due to immunosuppression
Around 5% of FIV-positive cats also test positive for FeLV (Feline Leukemia Virus). Cancer incidence is higher in infected cats:
- 6 times higher with FIV
- 60 times higher with FeLV
- 80 times higher with co-infection of FIV and FeLV
Diagnosing Feline FIV
Diagnosis primarily involves specific tests:
- Snap Test: Detects FIV antibodies quickly in-clinic. May yield false positives if cats are vaccinated against FIV or young cats under 10 weeks have maternal antibodies.
- Western Blot Test: Also detects antibodies but with greater accuracy. Performed externally, results take longer to obtain.
- PCR Test: Detects viral DNA directly, even at low viral loads. Especially useful for confirming diagnosis in kittens still carrying maternal antibodies.
Prevention
To protect your cats from FIV:
- Test all new cats before introducing them to others.
- Keep cats indoors to reduce fights and bites.
- Vaccination is no longer recommended as the current vaccine is ineffective.
Treatment
FIV has no cure, but symptomatic treatments can manage the disease effectively:
- Addressing secondary infections.
- Immune system support medications (e.g., interferon, Response).
Prognosis
FIV-positive cats may remain asymptomatic for several months or even years before developing symptoms. While the disease is incurable, appropriate care helps maintain a good quality of life for affected cats.
