Caring for an FIV Cat

Caring for an FIV Cat: Everything You Need to Know

Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) can be devastating to cats, but it doesn’t have to prevent you from adopting an FIV cat if you know what you’re up against.

FIV-positive cats can make wonderful pets as long as their condition is manage properly and they have the best care and nutrition available. Please read this guide on caring for a cat with FIV to learn more about what you need to do to keep your cat happy and healthy.

What is feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV)?

Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) is a contagious disease that affects cats. The virus interferes with the cat’s immune system by destroying its white blood cells responsible for fighting off infections.

FIV diseases is not transferable to humans or other animals and does not cause symptoms in most infected cats. Even though most cats don’t show symptoms, those who do may experience some or all of the following: fever, anemia, weight loss, chronic fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes.

Symptoms may take up to 2 years before they develop. Without treatment and care from your veterinarian or veterinary specialist. These symptoms could lead to life-threatening problems like kidney failure or cancer due to infections going unchecked.

What are the signs of an FIV infection?

FIV infections are relatively uncommon, with only about 1% of all cats testing positive. The symptoms vary in severity and can be from non -feline AIDS. Signs that may be present in cats with FIV include chronic weight loss, enlarged lymph nodes near the anus or genitals, swollen glands near the throat and eyes, white patches on the mouth or nose (from chronic drooling), skin sores that do not heal, and recurring infections of the upper respiratory tract.

How do I keep my cat from FIV+ cat healthy?

Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) is a virus that causes the immune system of cats to stop working properly. Even though it’s not as common as other illnesses, FIV can be pass from cat to cat through fighting or sharing food and water bowls. Thankfully, you can keep your cat healthy and happy with the proper treatments.

How do treats cats infect with (FIV)?

Although feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) is not nearly as transmittable as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), it can still be passed from cat to cat through bites and scratches. Cats with FIV should see their veterinarian yearly to get an exam and any necessary vaccines. This will help the cat stay healthy so the immune system can fight against the effects of the virus.

What should I know if I adopt a cat that tested positive for (FIV)?

If you adopt a cat that has tested positive for feline immunodeficiency virus, there are many things you should know. Not only will your cat require regular veterinary care like other cats. But you’ll also need to be aware of the possible symptoms of FIV and learn how it’s spread.

Can you bring home an uninfected kitten from an environment where there are infected cats (feces, urine, etc.)?

The short answer is no. Cats with FIV are contagious; like any other disease, you can’t catch it from an uninfected cat. The virus is spread through blood-to-blood contact or bites and scratches. If you’re in an area where there are infected cats (feces, urine, etc.) and you come into contact with the materials they leave behind, or they bite or scratch you. Then that’s when the risk of infection comes in.

What precautions should you take when you adopt or interact with cats?

You can easily identify FIV cats, but that doesn’t mean and should avoid them. Learning about the feline HIV virus is vital so you can better protect yourself and any other animals in your home. Talk with your veterinarian about any potential risks of adopting or interacting with an infected cat and ways to minimize those risks. It important to ensure that always use latest cat vaccines.