Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) is a common and consequential infectious disease in cats worldwide. It attacks the immune system, leaving cats vulnerable to other infections. Although infected cats may appear normal for years, they eventually suffer from immune deficiency, allowing normally harmless bacteria, viruses, and fungi to cause severe illnesses.
The primary mode of transmission for FIV is through bite wounds from an infected cat. Casual contact, such as sharing water bowls or mutual grooming, is not an efficient route for spreading the virus. FIV-infected cats exist globally, with approximately 2.5-5% of healthy cats in North America infected. Un-neutered male cats with outdoor access are at the greatest risk.
However, there is no evidence that FIV can be transmitted to humans. People who have close contact with infected cats or direct exposure to FIV through cat bites or laboratory accidents do not develop antibodies or illness related to FIV ¹²³⁴⁵. Therefore, rest assured that FIV is a feline-specific virus and poses no risk to humans. 🐱🚫🙌.
Source:
(1) Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) | Cornell University College of …. https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center/health-information/feline-health-topics/feline-immunodeficiency-virus-fiv.
(2) Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV): Everything you need to know …. https://www.rspcansw.org.au/blog/animal-care-information/feline-immunodeficiency-virus-fiv-explainer/.
(3) Cats With FIV – Care And Prevention | RSPCA. https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/cats/health/fiv.
(4) Ask Elizabeth: Can I catch FIV from my cat? | Cornell University …. https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center/health-information/feline-health-topics/ask-elizabeth-can-i-catch-fiv-my-cat.
(5) Feline immunodeficiency virus – Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Feline_immunodeficiency_virus.