Feline Immunodeficiency Virus is a virus similar to HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) in humans, and slowly impacts how an infected cat’s immune system functions, making them more susceptible to infections and illness. FIV however only affects cats and poses no risk to humans.

For FIV the primary mode of transmission is through bites from an infected cat. For this reason un-neutered male cats, that tend to be more likely to engage in territorial fighting have an increased risk of contracting the virus. Normal non aggressive contact between cats such as grooming, sharing of bows and water, pose no significant risk of transmission. Therefore cats that live together engaging in normal friendly social structures are unlikely to pass the on the virus if one cat happens to be infected. Although uncommon, it is possible for an infected mother cat to pass on the virus to her kittens, especially if she becomes infected during her pregnancy. Sexual contact itself is not a major factor in the transmission of FIV.

An infected cat may (but not always) pass through three stages of infection, the acute stage, the asymptomatic stage, and the progressive stage.

The acute stage occurs 1-3 months after initial infection when the virus reaches the lymph nodes triggering an immune response by the body releasing T-cells in response to the new infection. During this phase enlargement of the lymph nodes is common along with fever, loss of appetite, and depression. As cats are stoic creatures this stage is often missed by owners or attributed to another cause of fever.

The asymptomatic stage occurs after the initial acute stage and can last for months or even years (the infection in some cats never progresses beyond this stage). During this time the virus slowly reproduces in the cats immune cells and there will be no outward sign of illness. Should a blood test be carried out, some cats may show a low white blood cell count or increased levels of proteins in their blood.

As the virus replicates through the immune system the infection enters the progressive immunocompromised stage, where other infections may become more likely. Most illnesses connected with FIV are not the virus itself but other secondary infections due to the cat’s immune system not functioning like it should. Infected cats are likely to develop repeated infections of the urinary tract, eyes, skin, or even respiratory tract. They are also much more likely to develop inflammation and gum diseases such as Gingivitis, additionally they have a higher risk of certain types of cancer and blood disorders.

Unfortunately there is a no cure for FIV, so once diagnosed management of the condition is the key to the longterm health of an infected cat. For an otherwise healthy cat reducing the risk of picking up a secondary infection, along with prevention of passing the virus on is an important consideration. Both of these aims can be helped by keeping the cat inside. Neutering can also help limit the spread of the virus as neutered cats tend to roam less and stay closer to home when they have outside access.

Feeding a nutrient rich diet like Marro can be beneficial to support any cats immune system. Cats with FIV that may be suffering from painful gums may find a softer diet more palatable and fresh food can be a great solution for this.

If you have any concerns about FIV and your cat we would always recommend speaking with your vet for more advice and support.