Feline immunodeficiency or FIV is a highly contagious disease among cats, caused by a virus that affects the immune system and makes them more vulnerable to other less important diseases or infections.
It is very important that everyone thinking about adopting a new pet knows about this disease and its symptoms in order to be able to detect it.
What is feline immunodeficiency virus?
Feline immunodeficiency virus is a disease caused by a virus called FIV. This virus attacks a cat’s immune system, weakening it little by little until the feline is completely vulnerable to any disease.
When a cat comes into contact with the virus, if caught early and treated properly, the cat can live a long and happy life.
Keep in mind that it is not a virus that can be transmitted to humans. In addition, cats get infected if there is contact with the spit or blood of another infected cat. It is transmitted mainly by bites between cats, so the most likely to have it are stray cats.
Symptoms of feline immunodeficiency virus
Cats present no symptoms in the early stages. In the more advanced phase, symptoms begin to show, such as fever, weight loss, diarrhea, recurrent infections or strange behaviour.
Do you suspect your cat might have FIV? See the veterinarian immediately to have the relevant tests done. In case of infection, the best prevention is to strengthen his immune system. To prevent the virus from spreading, cats 8-weeks-old and older can receive an FIV vaccine.
What care does a cat positive for feline immunodeficiency need?
The care is the same as with a healthy cat. You have to take him to the vet to have all his checks and vaccinations up to date.
In the case of positive cats, one must be aware of any change in their behavior for early treatment and avoid affecting the kitten’s defenses.
Adopting a FIV positive cat?
Of course! If it is the only cat in the house there is no problem.
If the FIV-positive cat shares a house with other kittens that do not have the disease, we recommend that you follow the veterinarian’s recommendations and verify that there are no fights between them to avoid problems.
We hope this article has been interesting for you. It is an informative explanation about the disease. We recommend that you go to a professional to carry out all the appropriate tests and treatments to guarantee the good health of your cat.
If you want more information about cat care, products or curiosities, do not hesitate to follow us on our social networks.