Virus in Cats Similar to HIV in Humans

Feline immunosuppressive virus (FIV) is a virus that causes a syndrome in cats very similar to AIDS in humans.

FIV infection results in severe depression of the cat's immune system, thus the cat becomes ill from infections that it could normally eliminate. Clinical signs of FIV infection are very diverse, because they involve a variety of secondary infections.

Cats with FIV associated disease may have a poor hair coat, chronic fever, decreased appetite, chronic gum and mouth infections, persistent diarrhea, slow progressive weight loss, and many other symptoms. It takes several years for clinical signs to develop. These symptoms may persist for years, with periods of good health between episodes.

The virus is spread from one cat to another through biting, so the disease is most common in roaming, fighting males.

Cats cannot give FIV to people, however, nor can cats get AIDS. Studies indicate that veterinarians, owners and researchers who have had close contact with FIV infected cats show absolutely no evidence of infection.

If your cat develops feline AIDS, there is no cure. The use of antibiotics may control the secondary infections as they occur, but nothing can cure the FIV infection itself. A cat with FIV infection should be kept indoors and away from other cats so it does not spread the disease.

There is a recently developed vaccine coming onto the market for feline immunosuppressive virus. You can protect your cat, however, by keeping it away from potential sources of infection. If you are concerned that your cat may have this virus, have it tested. FIV infection is diagnosed by a blood test. Also, if you are going to adopt a stray cat, consider getting its blood tested before introducing it to your home.Talk to your veterinary health care team for more information about FIV.