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Cats can get AIDS, too

Dr James Ramsden
Thursday, March 4, 2010
 
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There’s a killer virus out there and about 10 per cent of cats are infected – it’s called FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus) and it causes cat AIDS. Like its cousin, HIV in people, this virus destroys the immune system and, ultimately, kills the cat.

There’s one big difference between FIV and HIV. FIV is passed by biting – the cat’s long, sharp teeth bury the saliva and virus deep into the other cat’s body – leading to infection.

Cats that roam from their gardens have a one in 10 chance of becoming infected – a high risk. There are two ways to prevent the virus:

  • Vaccinate your cat – the new FIV vaccine is available from all vets and is recommended.
  • Stop your cat from wandering by locking indoors or having a cat enclosure installed.
  • Ask your vet about having your pet tested to make sure he or she doesn’t have cat AIDS.
 
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My daughter had a stray cat come to live with them when they were in Canberra about 6 years ago. They thought she must have lived there before the way she moved in and took over the house. She was in good health, however after she had been there a while, and hadn't decided to move on, they took her to the vet for a checkup and to be vaccinated. The vet did some blood tests, and advised them that the cat had FIV. She is fine, and still in great health. They keep her inside so she won't fight with other cats, but lives a normal cat life. She wasn't a young cat when she came to live with them, so I would think would be about 10 by now.

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