What is FIV?

FIV is an abbreviation for virus immunodeficiency of cat, disease affecting domestic cats and other members of the family of cats. FIV is a similar HIV virus that affects human beings, but FIV affects only cats and cannot be transmitted to people. Unlike cat leukemia, other cat immune diseases that are always fatal, a cat that has closed FIV can live a long and healthy life with veterinary care and a healthy lifestyle

FIV is closed by contact with a cat that no longer carries the virus. However, the most common way in which it is passed is saliva, especially during the fighting with cats. During mating, cat can be infected and kittens can infect FIV from their mother. Occasionally, FIV can be passed between cats that share a box for garbage and food or water dishes, although the replacement of body fluids is the biggest factor. In addition, blood transfusions can also cause cat infection; However, veterinarians usually test the blood of the Profiv donor before use.

FIV itself does not cause symptoms in the body of the cat. However, the immune system threatens and makes the animal difficult to fight common diseases that a healthy cat would never show signs. Cats infected with FIV are susceptible to pneumonia, upper respiratory tract infections, FELV, cancer and countless other problems. There is currently no cure for FIV, but there is a preventive vaccine. If you plan to leave it outdoors, you should have cat vaccination against FIV.

A cat that has already closed the virus can live a quality life with special care. First, the cat should not be allowed to walk outside and should be kept away from other cats that can go in or out. If you have other cats at home, they should be vaccinated against FIV and other common cat diseases. Secondly, the cat should get regular veterinary care and be seen with the signs of the disease, no matter how insignificant it seems. A cat with FIV should also receive highly nutritiousdiet to remain in optimal health.