Feline immunodeficiency virus affects cats of all ages. The virus weakens a cat’s immune system, making it harder for them to fight off infections and illnesses they would normally fight off.
FIV most commonly spreads through deep bite wounds, which means outdoor cats or cats that get into fights are at a higher risk. Luckily, the virus doesn’t spread easily through casual contact.
This basically means that you won’t need to worry about it being transmitted through simpler interactions within cats. However, the virus is still serious and has no definite cure. In this guide, you’ll learn everything there is to know about FIV in cats, from symptoms to how it’s prevented.
What Is FIV?
Feline immunodeficiency virus in cats is a retrovirus that affects their immune system. It’s similar to how HIV works in humans, but FIV is species-specific. This means it only affects cats and can’t spread to humans, dogs, or other animals.
The virus invades their white blood cells, which are crucial for fighting off infections. Over time, the immune system becomes weaker, making the cat vulnerable to secondary infections and illnesses.
While this doesn’t mean that cats with FIV are always sick, it simply means they require extra care to maintain their health.
Can FIV Be Transmitted Through Saliva?
Yes, the virus spreads mainly through bite wounds, where the infected saliva enters the bloodstream. This can happen during fights, especially when cats encounter other territorial animals who are infected.
In some cases, an infected mother may pass FIV to her kittens during pregnancy or through her milk while nursing. However, this form of transmission is relatively rare compared to bite wounds.
What Are the Stages of an FIV Infection?
FIV progresses in three stages, each with its own set of symptoms. These stages are the acute phase, the asymptomatic phase, and the progressive immune dysfunction phase. Each stage is unique and shows signs of the progression of a cat’s FIV infection.
Here are the stages of an FIV infection.
Stage 1: Acute Phase
The acute phase of FIV in cats occurs within 1 to 3 months of infection. This is when the virus first enters the body and begins replicating. During this phase, the immune system will attempt to fight off the virus and respond, resulting in mild or temporary symptoms.
Some cats recover quickly and appear healthy again as the virus transitions to the next stage. Here are the common symptoms in the acute phase of FIV:
Fever. A low-grade fever is often one of the first signs, though it may go unnoticed. You may notice a slight increase in your cat’s temperature when touched.
Swollen Lymph Nodes. Enlarged lymph nodes, which may feel like small lumps under the jaw or in the groin, are key indicators of the immune system fighting off an infection.
Lethargy. Cats may seem less energetic or prefer to sleep more than usual. They might choose to lie down even after being provided the toys and attention they usually like.
Loss of Appetite. Your cat may also have a reduced appetite, even when given their favorite treats and foods. Persistent cases often lead to weight loss.
Minor Infections. Cats may develop mild infections, with symptoms such as sneezing or skin irritation. This is a sign that the virus has started to suppress your cat’s immune system.
Stage 2: Asymptomatic Phase
The asymptomatic phase, also called the latent stage, is the longest phase of an FIV infection. It can last anywhere from several months to a few years.
During this time, the FIV lies dormant in the cat’s body and replicates at a slower rate. In most cases, there will be no visible symptoms during this stage. Cats may appear completely healthy.
Some cats might show very subtle signs, such as occasional fatigue or minor weight loss. But these are often dismissed as normal fluctuations and aren’t usually traced to FIV in cats.
During this stage, the virus is still active and may be slowly damaging the immune system. FIV-positive cats can still transmit the virus to other cats, even if they seem healthy.
Stage 3: Progressive Immune Dysfunction Phase
In the final stage, the cat’s immune system becomes immensely suppressed and weakened. As a result, cats with FIV start to develop symptoms related to other chronic, recurring infections and other opportunistic health issues.
Here are the symptoms of the progressive immune dysfunction phase:
Chronic Infections. Respiratory, skin, and urinary tract infections can present with differentiating symptoms. These conditions can cause coughing, sores, and pain.
Weight Loss and Wasting Syndrome. Cats may lose weight even when they eat normally. This can be seen in a loss of muscle mass as well as a poor coat condition.
Gastrointestinal Issues. Chronic diarrhea and vomiting are common signs in the advanced stages of FIV.
Oral and Dental Issues. Mouth ulcers, tooth loss, and gingivitis in cats can all cause inflammation of the gums and mouth. This results in severe discomfort for cats.
Neurological Symptoms. Seizures, tremors, behavioral changes, increased vocalization, and difficulty walking are some of the neurological symptoms associated with advanced FIV in cats.
Cancer. Cats with advanced FIV are at an increased risk of developing cancers, such as lymphoma.
How Do Vets Diagnose FIV in Cats?
Specialized tests will be used to diagnose FIV in your cat. These tests focus on identifying antibodies or genetic material specific to the virus.
Here are the key tests used for FIV diagnosis:
ELISA Test
The ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay) test is the most common and widely used method for screening cats for FIV. This test works by detecting antibodies in the blood that are produced when a cat’s immune system responds to the virus.
It works by collecting a small blood sample. This is then analyzed right at the clinic, and the results will be available in just a few minutes. The ELISA test is an effective tool for detecting the virus, even in the early stages of an infection.
Western Blot Test
After the ELISA test, we'll proceed to a Western blot test. This test is a more specific method for detecting FIV antibodies. A blood sample will be studied at a specialized laboratory to conduct the test.
This test works by identifying specific antibodies associated with FIV, which can reduce the chance of a false positive. The Western blot test provides a higher level of accuracy, but it does come at a higher cost and with a much longer wait for the results.
PCR Test
The PCR test takes a different approach to diagnosing FIV. Rather than checking for antibodies, the test identifies the genetic material of the FIV. PCR is capable of detecting infections earlier than antibody-based tests. This is because it focuses on the virus rather than on the immune response.
Can FIV Be Cured?
While FIV in cats cannot be cured, the treatment process will focus on managing the condition. We’ll also work on preventing secondary infections.
FIV weakens the immune system, making infected cats more vulnerable to secondary infections caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. Because of this, we’ll work on managing these areas of concern.
Antibiotics and Antifungal Medications. These are used to treat common infections such as respiratory illnesses, urinary tract infections, and skin conditions.
Antiviral Drugs. Medications such as Zidovudine can also be prescribed. However, these are only reserved for specific cases due to the side effects the drug presents.
Pain Relief and Anti-Inflammatories. Cats with dental disease, gingivitis, or mouth ulcers may need pain management to eat comfortably.
Nutritional Support. A high-quality, well-balanced diet is essential to support a cat’s immune system and overall well-being. Some cats may benefit from appetite stimulants or specific therapeutic diets.
FIV-positive cats are more susceptible to recurring infections. So, be sure to watch for early signs of illness, such as lethargy, low appetite, or changes in behavior. Consult with us if you need any help.
Vet Tips: Recovery and Management of FIV in Cats
To help improve your cat’s life, a couple of lifestyle adjustments will make all the difference.
Keep Your Cat Indoors. If your cat has FIV, staying indoors reduces their exposure to other infectious agents. Aside from preventing secondary infections, this also minimizes the risk of FIV spreading to other cats.
Clean and Safe Home. Maintain a clean home, including food and water bowls, litter boxes, and bedding. Be sure to provide enrichment from toys, scratching posts, and cozy resting areas that keep cats mentally and physically stimulated.
Minimize Stress. Cats with FIV are more susceptible to illness when stressed. A calm, stable environment with predictable routines is key to their health.
Regular Checkups. Checkups are essential for monitoring your cat’s FIV condition. Tests such as a complete blood count, urinalysis, and a serum biochemical analysis will be included.
Balanced Nutrition. Providing a nutritious meal helps keep your cat’s immune system strong, preventing any avoidable secondary infections. This means that raw diets should be avoided at all costs.
Constant Monitoring. You will need to keep a close eye on your cat throughout its life. This means that any symptoms should be noted down and checked.
How Long Do Cats Live With FIV?
Many cats with FIV live normal lifespans, especially if they’re kept indoors, receive regular vet care, and stay free from secondary infections. With the right support and care, FIV-positive cats can avoid many complications and lead full lives.
Can a Cat With FIV Live With Other Cats?
Yes, an FIV-positive cat can live with other cats, as long as they coexist without getting into serious fights. Since the virus mainly spreads through bite wounds and not casual contact, the one thing you have to make sure of is that they don’t fight.
How to Protect Your Cat Against FIV?
While there’s no guaranteed way to eliminate the risk, one effective way to protect your cat is to keep it indoors. FIV is primarily transmitted through bite wounds, which can happen when cats fight. So, the best way to do so is to keep your cat inside.
If your cat loves to roam outside, be sure to close all windows and doors. In many cases, we recommend having your cat spayed, as this significantly reduces the urge for cats to roam and fight. In turn, this lowers the likelihood of exposure to the virus.
Unneutered cats are more likely to go outside and pick fights with other cats, some of which can be infected with the virus.
You can also dedicate a room for your cat to stay in, provided that their needs are all met in this area. This should include their litter box, food and water bowls, cat toys, and other essentials.
Since there isn’t a vaccine currently available for FIV, the most effective way is to physically protect your cat.
“Our cats rely on us for love and protection. Showing how much we care starts with how we keep them safe.”
- Dr. Soheyl Simaei
Final Thoughts on FIV in Cats
Feline immunodeficiency virus can be challenging to manage. The virus attacks our cats’ immune systems and makes them vulnerable to other infections and diseases. What’s more, the condition cannot be cured.
This makes it crucial to prevent this disease and protect our cats from it. By simply keeping your cat home safe, you can significantly reduce the risk. All these make a huge difference in improving your cat’s health and happiness.
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