Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) in Cats

FIV is a retrovirus that specifically targets cats. It has been studied extensively since its discovery, and while it is not as well - known as some other feline diseases, it can have a serious and long - term effect on a cat's life. Retroviruses are unique in that they use RNA as their genetic material and have the ability to convert this RNA into DNA within the host cell. This process allows the virus to integrate its genetic material into the host's genome, making it difficult for the cat's immune system to completely eliminate the virus.

Transmission of FIV

• Bite - Wound Transmission

The most common way FIV is transmitted is through deep bite wounds. Cats are territorial animals, and fights between them are not uncommon. When an infected cat bites another cat during a fight, the virus - laden saliva can enter the bloodstream of the recipient cat. This is why unneutered male cats, which are more likely to engage in territorial disputes, are at a higher risk of contracting FIV.

• Mother - to - Offspring Transmission

Although less common, FIV can be transmitted from an infected mother cat to her kittens. This can occur during pregnancy, through the placenta, during the birthing process, or through the mother's milk. However, not all kittens born to an infected mother will necessarily become infected. Kittens may inherit antibodies from their mother that can give false - positive test results in the early weeks of life.

• Other Potential Routes

While bite - wound and mother - to - offspring transmissions are the main known routes, there have been some studies suggesting that in rare cases, long - term, close contact between cats may also lead to FIV transmission. However, this is not as well - established as the other two methods, and sharing of food bowls, litter boxes, or casual grooming is not typically considered a significant source of transmission.

How to Determine if a Cat is Infected with FIV?

I. Observe clinical symptoms

• Early symptoms

Fever and swollen lymph nodes: In the early stage of infection, the cat may have a slightly elevated body temperature and its lymph nodes can be palpated, for example, the lymph nodes in the neck, armpits or groin may become larger than normal and easier to palpate.
Change in mental state: the cat may show more lethargy than usual, less interest in the surrounding environment, no longer as active as usual, and less playful and exploratory behaviour.

• Mid-term symptoms

Recurrent infections: Due to the impact on the immune system, cats are prone to recurrent respiratory infections such as sneezing, runny nose and coughing, and the frequency of infection may be higher than that of healthy cats.

Urinary problems: Abnormalities of the urinary system may occur, such as frequent urination, difficulty in urination or changes in urine properties, such as haematuria or cloudy urine.

Hair and skin problems: the hair may become rough, lustreless and easily knotted, and the skin may show some small inflammation or increased dandruff.

• Late Symptoms

Oral problems: Oral infections are a common symptom of advanced FIV infection, including severe gingivitis, red, swollen and bleeding gums, and mouth ulcers, which can lead to eating difficulties and further weight loss in cats.

Neurological symptoms: Behavioural changes such as disorientation, poor coordination, convulsions and other neurological related symptoms may occur, indicating that the virus has caused damage to the cat's nervous system.

II. Conduct laboratory tests

• Antibody test

This is the most commonly used testing method. The veterinarian will collect a blood sample from the cat and test for the presence of FIV antibodies. However, it should be noted that kittens may acquire antibodies from FIV-infected mother cats, in which case, even if the kitten is tested positive in the first few months of life, it does not necessarily mean that it has been infected with FIV. Therefore, the positive antibody result of the kitten needs to be judged in conjunction with other factors, and it may be necessary to review the test after the kitten has grown up.

• PCR test

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) testing can directly detect the FIV gene in a cat's blood or tissues. This test is more accurate for determining whether a cat is being infected with FIV (rather than just carrying antibodies), especially if the antibody test results are inconclusive or further confirmation of infection status is required.

What to Do if Cat is Infected with FIV?

There is no specific antiviral treatment for cats infected with FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus), but comprehensive treatment can be used to control the condition and improve the quality of life of cats. The following are some common treatment measures.

1. Isolate affected cats

FIV is mainly transmitted through deep bite wounds. Therefore, if there are multiple cats at home, it is recommended that cats infected with FIV be kept in separate isolation to reduce the risk of spreading the virus to other cats. 

2. Supportive care

Provide nutritious, high protein food to help maintain the cat's nutritional status. Nutritional supplements such as immune protein powder can be added to enhance the cat's immunity. 

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3. Control of secondary infections

As FIV weakens the cat's immune system, it is easy to secondary bacterial, viral and parasitic infections. Therefore, antibiotics, antiviral drugs and antiparasitic drugs are needed to control these secondary infections. 

4. Immunomodulatory treatment

Some immunomodulatory drugs, such as recombinant feline interferon ω, can help regulate the cat's immune system and enhance its anti-viral ability. Interferon ω has been shown to have antiviral, immunomodulatory and anti-malignant cell proliferation effects and can be used as an adjunctive treatment for FIV. 

5. Symptomatic treatment

For specific symptoms in cats, such as stomatitis and skin diseases, appropriate symptomatic treatment will be carried out. For example, for stomatitis, oral care products such as pet-specific mouthwash and oral gel can be used to help relieve inflammation and pain. 

6. Regular physical examination

Cats infected with FIV need regular physical examination to monitor the development of the disease and adjust the treatment plan in time. It is recommended that a comprehensive physical examination be conducted every six months. 

It should be noted that FIV-infected cats need lifelong management and the purpose of the treatment is to control the condition and improve the quality of life, not to completely eliminate the virus. During the course of treatment, the cat's health needs to be closely monitored to identify and deal with any emerging health problems in a timely manner. At the same time, close communication is maintained with the veterinarian to develop an individualised treatment and care plan based on the cat's specific condition.

How to Prevent FIV Infection in Cats?

• Indoor Keeping

Keep cats indoors and avoid contact with cats that may be infected with FIV, especially stray cats or unvaccinated cats.

• Avoid bites

The most common way of transmission of FIV virus among cats is through bites, so avoid fierce fights and bites among cats.

• Vaccination

Although the effectiveness and usefulness of the FIV vaccine is controversial, in some areas, FIV vaccination for cats may be considered. However, vaccination may interfere with the results of antibody tests, so it is necessary to consult a veterinarian before vaccination. 

1)Vaccine effectiveness

Partial protection: Some studies have shown that the FIV vaccine may have an effect on the ability of the virus to spread or on the progression of the disease, but does not completely prevent infection. For example, one study found that vaccination did not protect against FIV infection. 

Virus Subtype Differences: The effectiveness of FIV vaccines may vary depending on the virus subtype. For example, some vaccines may be effective against specific FIV subtypes, but may provide less protection against other subtypes. 

2)Vaccine Utility

Interference with Antibody Tests: FIV vaccines may interfere with the results of antibody tests, making it difficult to distinguish whether antibodies are induced by the vaccine or produced by viral infection. 

Requires repeated immunisations: Some FIV vaccines require repeated immunisations, both primary and booster, which may increase the complexity and cost of vaccination. 

• Isolating infected cats

If there are multiple cats in the home and one of them is diagnosed as FIV-positive, it is recommended that they be isolated to prevent the virus from spreading to other cats. 

• Regular testing

For cats that go out frequently or are potentially exposed to the FIV virus, regular FIV testing is recommended for early detection of infection. 

• Avoid raw food

As FIV suppresses the cat's immune system, raw food should be avoided to reduce the risk of food-borne bacterial and parasitic infections. 

• Neutering

Neutering your cat can reduce its aggressiveness and risk of FIV infection. 

Also Read: How to Pick Up Cat After Spaying

• Maintain environmental hygiene

Regular cleaning and disinfecting of your cat's living environment with routine cleaners and disinfectants can kill the FIV virus. 

Please note that these preventive measures cannot completely eliminate the risk of cats being infected with FIV, so you need to regularly observe your cat's health condition and consult your veterinarian if you notice any abnormal symptoms.

FAQs

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