World Cat Day: Complete Guide to Feline AIDS (FIV) Explained

MEXICO CITY (apro).— On the occasion of World Cat Day, celebrated every August 8th, the emphasis is on responsible pet ownership, which includes understanding illnesses that can affect these companion animals, such as the Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV).

FIV, colloquially known as feline AIDS, is a disease caused by a lentivirus that compromises the immune system of cats. This virus was first identified in 1986 by scientists in California, USA, while studying a colony of cats with a high rate of infections.

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How is Feline Immunodeficiency Virus Transmitted?

The primary mode of transmission of FIV is through saliva, mainly through deep bites during fights between cats. For this reason, unneutered male cats with outdoor access are at higher risk of infection due to their territorial behavior and potential clashes with other felines.

Less common transmission routes include from mother to kittens during pregnancy or lactation, though this happens in a smaller percentage of cases. The virus does not spread to humans or other animal species.

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The Impact of FIV on Cat Health

Feline Immunodeficiency Virus attacks and destroys white blood cells, progressively weakening the animal’s immune system. This condition leaves the cat susceptible to secondary infections caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites that would not pose a serious threat to a healthy animal.

The disease can have a long incubation period, during which the cat may not show obvious symptoms. However, over time, symptoms such as weight loss, fever, lack of appetite, gum inflammation (gingivitis), conjunctivitis, chronic diarrhea, and recurrent infections of the skin or respiratory tract may appear.

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Diagnosis and Management of the Disease

Diagnosis of FIV is done through specific blood tests that detect the presence of antibodies against the virus. It is recommended to test all cats, particularly if they are new to a household with other felines or if they have outdoor access.

Currently, there is no cure for FIV infection. Management of the disease focuses on providing the cat with a good quality of life, which includes high-quality nutrition, regular deworming, a vaccination program against other diseases, and periodic veterinary check-ups, at least twice a year.

Veterinarians recommend keeping cats with FIV indoors to prevent them from contracting other infections and to stop the spread of the virus to other cats.[1] With proper care, a cat with FIV can have a life expectancy similar to that of an uninfected cat.[4]

Prevention: The Key Against FIV

Prevention is the most effective tool against Feline Immunodeficiency Virus. Neutering, both males and females, is a crucial measure as it reduces roaming behavior and fights.[3]

Preventing cats from coming into contact with other felines of unknown health status and testing for FIV before introducing a new cat into the home are other important preventive measures.[3] Regarding vaccination, there is a vaccine available in the United States, but its efficacy is limited and it is not approved in Europe.[3]