FIV is a viral infection that weakens a cat's immune system. Cats can become infected through bite wounds, mutual grooming, sharing food and water bowls, sexual activity, or from an infected mother cat.

What is FIV? 

Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) is one of the most common and consequential infectious diseases of cats around the world. In infected cats, FIV attacks the immune system, leaving the cat vulnerable to many other infections. Although cats infected with FIV may appear normal for years, they eventually suffer from immune deficiency, which allows normally harmless bacteria, viruses, protozoa, and fungi found in the everyday environment to potentially cause severe illnesses. 

What are common FIV signs in cats?

Early signs include:

• Weight Loss

• Fever 

• Enlarged Lymph Nodes

• Lack of Appetite

• Lethargy

• Diarrhea

• Poor coat condition

• Neurologic disorders

How is FIV managed in cats?  

A veterinarian can prescribe medications to help with secondary infections, inflammation, and boosting the immune system. Provide a nutritious diet, fluid and electrolyte replacement therapy, and parasite control. Keep your cat indoors to prevent the spread of FIV to other cats. You can also create a cat-proof enclosure in your garden to allow your cat some outdoor access. Neutering male cats and spaying female cats can help reduce the risk of spreading the disease. Schedule regular checkups with your vet for blood work and urinalysis. and keeping up on vaccinations to reduce the risk of pathogens attacking their weakened immune system.

What is the prognosis in cats?

The prognosis for cats with Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) depends on several factors, including the strain of FIV, the cat's immune response, and whether other infections are present. Cats with FIV can live for months or years, and some may have a similar life expectancy to uninfected cats. However, on average, FIV-infected cats live about five years from the time of diagnosis. FIV initially causes a short-lived illness that may go unnoticed, and many cats remain asymptomatic for years. However, some cats may develop severe infections, and symptoms can include lethargy, weight loss, fever, diarrhea, vomiting, and mouth sores. FIV-positive cats are more vulnerable to other diseases, so it's important to protect them. They should not be fed raw food, and it's best to keep them indoors. 

Management tips for a cat with FIV

• Keep your cat indoors- This prevents your cat from spreading the infection to other cats and protects them from diseases outside. If you want your cat to go outside, you can create a cat-proof enclosure. 

• Neuter or spay your cat- Neutering male cats and spaying female cats can reduce aggression and the risk of spreading the infection. 

• Provide a stress-free environment- Provide your cat with enough food, water, litter boxes, bedding, toys, and safe places to hide. If you have other pets, limit their number and avoid getting new ones. 

• Feed your cat a healthy diet- Avoid raw food, eggs, and unpasteurized dairy products. Instead, feed your cat a high-quality, commercially prepared diet. 

• Take your cat to the vet- Take your cat to the vet for regular checkups, at least twice a year. Your vet can monitor your cat's health and provide treatment if needed. 

• Provide routine preventive care- Provide your cat with routine vaccinations and parasite control for fleas, mites, ticks, and intestinal worms. 

• Brush your cat's teeth- Brush your cat's teeth daily and take them to the vet for professional dental care. Dental disease is common in FIV-positive cats

In a crisis situation:

Contact your veterinarian immediately if your cat suddenly collapses, has uncontrollable seizures, experiences difficulty breathing, behaves aggressively, or vocalizes in pain.