Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) is a retrovirus that infects cats and gradually weakens their immune system, making them more vulnerable to other infections. It is often compared to HIV in humans, but it only affects cats and cannot infect people.
What FIV is
FIV is a lentivirus, a type of slow-acting virus. After infection, it integrates into the cat’s cells and causes a lifelong infection. Many cats remain healthy for years before showing any signs of illness.
How FIV spreads
Transmission happens mainly through deep bite wounds, which is why outdoor, unneutered male cats are at highest risk. Casual contact—sharing bowls, grooming, or living together peacefully—rarely spreads the virus. Mother-to-kitten transmission is uncommon but can occur.
Stages of infection
FIV infection typically progresses through three phases:
- Acute phase: Fever, swollen lymph nodes, lethargy; often mild and unnoticed.
- Asymptomatic phase: Can last months to years; the cat appears healthy while the virus replicates slowly.
- Progressive phase: Immune system becomes compromised, leading to chronic infections, dental disease, weight loss, or neurological issues.
Symptoms associated with FIV
Cats may develop:
- Recurrent respiratory, skin, or urinary infections
- Gingivitis or severe dental disease
- Weight loss
- Behavioral or neurological changes
- Higher risk of certain cancers
Not all infected cats develop severe disease, and many live normal lifespans with good care.
Diagnosis
Veterinarians diagnose FIV by detecting antibodies in the blood. Positive tests are often confirmed with additional methods like Western blot or PCR. Kittens under six months may test positive due to maternal antibodies and need retesting later.
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