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Feline Immunodeficiency Virus in Cats(FIV)
Also called feline AIDS, this virus gradually weakens the immune system. Primarily spread through bite wounds, most common in unneutered male cats.
Vet Supervised
Symptoms
- Recurrent infections
- Stomatitis/gingivitis
- Chronic diarrhea
- Weight loss
- Enlarged lymph nodes
Related Symptom Pages
Causes
- Bite wounds from infected cats
- Mother-to-kitten (rare)
- Infection through fight wounds
Diagnosis
1
Antibody test (SNAP test)
2
PCR testing
3
Western blot
Treatment
- Aggressive treatment of secondary infections
- Thorough nutritional management
- Stress reduction
- Antiviral medication (interferon)
Prognosis
With proper care, the asymptomatic period can last years to over a decade. Maintaining immune function is crucial.
Severity: Medium
Prevention
- Neutering (prevents fighting)
- Indoor-only housing
- Test new cats for FIV
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