Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) is a retrovirus that affects a cat's immune system, often compared to HIV in humans due to its progressive impact. However, many infected cats live full, healthy lives while requiring careful management to stay well.
FIV belongs to the lentivirus family, a subgroup of retroviruses. It infects white blood cells, inserting its genetic material into the cat's DNA and gradually weakening immune defences. This process can remain silent for years, leading to a prolonged asymptomatic phase.
Transmission mainly occurs through bite wounds, as the virus is present in the saliva. Male cats are more frequently infected due to outdoor fighting. Though rare, infection can occasionally occur via mating or from mother to kitten.
It’s important to note that FIV is specific to cats and not transmissible to humans or other species. It differs from the Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV), another retrovirus with similar symptoms but different effects and management.
Symptoms often develop slowly and may be subtle, making early detection challenging. Cats with FIV may show recurrent illnesses or secondary infections due to immune suppression. Common symptoms include:
Given symptom overlap with other diseases like FeLV, veterinary testing is essential to confirm FIV.
If FIV infection is suspected, a vet will collect a comprehensive medical history and conduct a physical examination. Diagnostic tests generally include:
Vets will also rule out other causes such as fungal, bacterial, or viral infections and assess for cancerous growths. Because vaccinated cats may test positive, vets consider vaccination history carefully.
There is currently no cure for FIV but with proper care, infected cats can live many years. Key treatment strategies include:
Outpatient treatment is usually sufficient if the cat is stable and not dehydrated. Early intervention helps maintain quality of life and delays disease progression.
Cats with FIV need close health monitoring as lifelong companions. Preventative care to avoid infections is crucial because their immune systems cannot protect them fully. Key points for owners include:
Despite challenges, many FIV-positive cats lead happy, fulfilling lives when supported with responsible care.
Preventing FIV involves reducing exposure to infected cats, especially aggressive interactions. Vaccination for FIV is available but remains controversial in the UK due to concerns about efficacy and interference with diagnostic tests.
Responsible pet ownership means neutering cats to reduce fighting and roaming, supervising outdoor access, and testing new cats before introducing them into multi-cat homes.
Early testing helps identify carriers—cats that test positive but never show symptoms—and allows for informed lifestyle decisions to protect other pets.
Quick Answer: Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) and Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) are both serious retroviruses affecting cats but differ in transmission, disease progression, and management.
FIV primarily spreads through bite wounds, has a long asymptomatic stage, and causes immune suppression leading to susceptibility to secondary infections. FeLV spreads more easily via saliva and close contact and often leads to cancers and blood disorders earlier.
FeLV-infected cats generally have a shorter life expectancy. Both conditions require veterinary diagnosis and care but have distinct impacts on cats' health.
Quick Answer: Cats infected with FIV can live for many years, often five or more, especially with early diagnosis, good health care, and a protected environment.
FIV does weaken the immune system over time, increasing vulnerability to infections and some cancers. However, advances in veterinary care allow many FIV-positive cats to enjoy long, comfortable lives if their owners provide consistent monitoring, prompt treatment of infections, and a safe, low-stress living environment.
Quick Answer: Though rare, kittens can be born with FIV, usually if their mother is infected, but most FIV transmission occurs later through bite wounds during fights.
Infected queens rarely pass FIV to their kittens, but when they do, early testing is advised. Protecting kittens from exposure to aggressive adult cats reduces infection risk as they grow. Neutering and not allowing outdoor roaming also minimise spread in multi-cat households.
If you are considering adopting a cat, it’s important to find one through responsible avenues. The Pets4Homes mixed breed kittens listings can be a good place to start your search for a loving companion.
Always ensure any new cat or kitten comes from a reputable source prioritising health, vaccination, and screening to reduce risks of diseases including FIV and FeLV.
Feline Immunodeficiency Virus is a lifelong condition compromising a cat’s immune system slowly but not inevitably shortening quality of life. Responsible pet ownership, early detection, appropriate veterinary care, and a safe environment can help infected cats live happy and fulfilling lives. Understanding the nature of FIV empowers cat owners to provide the best support for their feline friends.