Feline Leukemia and Feline
Immunodeficiency
Here’s what you need to know about Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) and Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) testing.
YOU CAN’T ALWAYS TELL IF A CAT OR KITTEN IS INFECTED.
Both FIV and FeLV infections are major causes of illness and death in cats. Both viruses are spread from cat to cat, and research show that up to 10 percent of sick cats are infected with one or both of the viruses. But even healthy cats can harbor infection and spread viruses to other cats. In some cats, signs of disease may not become apparent until weeks, months or even years after they first become infected with FIV or FeLV.
FIV is typically spread when one cat bites another; rarely does an FIV-infected mother infect her kittens. FeLV is spread when the saliva or urine of an infected cat comes in contact with another cat. This can happen when cats groom each other, share food and water bowls or litter boxes. Kittens born to FeLV-infected mothers are commonly infected as well.
WHY SHOULD MY CAT BE TESTED?
The American Association of Feline Practitioners, an organization of veterinarians with a special interest in the health of cats, urges you to have your cat or kitten tested for FIV and FeLV. Early detection of infection will help you not only to maintain the health of your own cat, but also allow you to prevent spreading infection to other cats.
Fortunately, it is usually quite simple to diagnose infection. A small blood sample from your cat is all that’s needed. Veterinarians can perform the test right in the hospital and you will get the results in minutes, allowing you to consult with your veterinarian before leaving the clinic. In some rare cases, however, it may be necessary to follow up with a blood sample sent to a veterinary laboratory. In this case, the result will usually be available to you within a week.
WHEN SHOULD MY CAT OR KITTEN BE TESTED?
FIV and FeLV testing is important in the following situations:
- If your cat has never been tested before.
- If your cat is sick, even if it may have tested free of infection in the past.
- When cats are newly adopted, whether or not she will be entering a household with other cats.
- If your cat has recently been exposed to an infected cat.
- If your cat is exposed to cats that may be infected (for example, if your cat goes outdoors unsupervised or lives with other cats that might be infected.) Your veterinarian may suggest testing periodically as long as your cat is potentially exposed to infected cats.
- Prior to your cat’s receiving either the FeLV or FIV vaccine.
AM I OR MY FAMILY AT RISK?
Research to date has shown that FIV and FeLV only affect cats and there is no crossover to humans.
WHAT DOES FELV OR FIV INFECTION DO TO MY CAT?
FIV and FeLV affect cats in similar ways, primarily by interfering with the immune system’s ability to ward off infections. Bacteria, viruses, protozoa and fungi found in the everyday environment –that usually do not affect healthy cats – can cause severe illness in FIV and FeLV infected cats. Various kinds of cancer and blood diseases are much more common in cats infected with either virus, too.
Early signs of infection are often subtle and commonly seen in cats that are simply not feeling well. These signs include decreased appetite, decreased grooming and decreased energy
As infection becomes more advanced, you may see the following signs:
- Marked loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Weakness
- Pale gums
- Mouth sores
- Diarrhea
- Enlarged lymph nodes
- Abscesses
Talk with your veterinarian about having your cat tested and vaccinated against these diseases. Your veterinarian is your best source of information on the prevention, diagnosis and management of FIV or FeLV infection. Routine visits to your veterinarian can help you know if your cat is sick. Remember, infected cats may live for years if diagnosed early and treated properly. Early detection offers infected cats the best chance for a long and happy life, and helps prevent the spread of infection to other cats.