Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) is a slow-acting virus that compromises a cat’s immune system over time (often targeting white blood cells), making it harder for them to fight off infections. While this may sound scary, some cats won’t show any signs after infection, and others might not show signs even after years of living with the disease.
What is feline immunodeficiency virus and how is it spread?
You may have heard feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) referred to as ‘cat AIDS’, and while that is not completely accurate, it is an understandable comparison, says Vetpartners Vet Manager Dr Deepa Gopinath.
“FIV in cats is from the same family of viruses as HIV in humans and works in much the same way [with the immune system],” she explains. “However, FIV is species-specific and cannot spread to people or other animals.”
Feline immunodeficiency virus is mainly spread through bite wounds from infected cats. Roaming outdoor cats, those from shelters and males who haven’t been desexed (and who are more likely to fight) tend to be most at risk.
The virus doesn’t survive long outside the body, so it’s not spread through common water bowls, shared bedding or grooming.
Feline viral rhinotracheitis is found throughout Australia, with kittens, unvaccinated cats, shelter cats and those from multi-cat homes or catteries are most at risk.
What are the signs of feline immunodeficiency virus?
As this virus progresses very slowly, infected cats will often not show any signs of infection for years. If their immune system starts to struggle, you may notice:
- Recurrent mouth or gum infections
- Weight loss or poor coat quality
- Enlarged lymph nodes
- Fever or lack of energy
- Slow-healing wounds
As the virus takes over, cats can develop secondary infections, dental disease and other long term health issues. Interestingly, some cats with FIV are never formally diagnosed as they are generally healthy, says Dr Gopinath.
“Many cats with FIV live normal lives, with the only impediment being that they may be a bit more susceptible to other infectious diseases, especially during times of stress,” she says.
How is feline immunodeficiency virus diagnosed?
FIV can be diagnosed with a simple blood test to look for antibodies. If the result is positive, your vet may recommend a follow up test to confirm the result as false positives can happen, especially in cats that have previously been vaccinated.
PCR testing (polymerase chain reaction) can also be used to detect the virus through blood samples or swabs taken from the mouth, nose, ears or rectum.
What is the treatment for feline immunodeficiency virus?
There is currently no cure for feline immunodeficiency virus, but with ongoing care many FIV-positive cats can live healthy, happy lives. The main focus for treatment is immune support to prevent secondary infections.
Your vet may recommend:
- Regular vet visits
- A balanced, nutrient-dense diet
- Early treatment for infections or dental issues
- Keeping parasite control up to date
- Reducing stress (such as the introduction of any new pets)
- Keeping your cat indoors to reduce infections and avoid spread
In some cases antiviral or immune support medication may also be prescribed.
How to protect your cat from feline immunodeficiency virus
Desexing, regular vet checks and keeping your feline buddy’s vaccinations up to date are all important parts of prevention, but the best protection is keeping your cat indoors or safely contained outdoors (for example, in a cat run).
While there is a vaccine for FIV, it doesn’t completely prevent infection and is recommended mainly to those cats with high-risk lifestyles, says Dr Gopinath.
“The vaccine provides some protection, but not all vaccinated cats will actually be protected, so preventing exposure is still important,” she confirms. “Owners should consider vaccinating cats at high risk, particularly cats that live mainly outdoors and those that fight with other cats on a regular basis.”
As the vaccine can interfere with testing for FIV, your cat should be tested (and confirmed negative), before vaccination, she adds.
Can you adopt a cat with feline immunodeficiency virus?
Unfortunately, many FIV-positive cats are overlooked for adoption, simply because people are unsure about what the virus really means for their health. If you’re thinking about adopting a cat, Dr Gopinath says there’s generally no need to worry about adopting a healthy FIV cat. Many infected cats live healthy, happy lives with little or no signs of FIV. They can make wonderful pets for single-pet households, she adds.
“However, if you live in a multi-cat household where the existing cats don’t have FIV, it may be a good idea to think twice before adopting an FIV cat, simply because the cats may fight and your current cats may contract the virus,” she explains.
When to see your vet
If your furry friend seems unwell, loses weight, develops ongoing infections or has inflamed gums or mouth ulcers, it’s best to seek advice from your vet. Even mild signs can be more significant for an FIV-positive cat, so early treatment is best.
If your cat tests positive, don’t panic – with good care and a stress-free home, FIV-positive cats can live just as long as uninfected cats.
