Can a cat with FIV live a long life?
1. Cats Infected With FIV Can Live Long and Healthy Lives. With proper care, a FIV+ cat can live a long and comfortable life. In fact, it’s not uncommon for cats infected with FIV to live up to 12 years! Like with any cat, the lifespan of an FIV+ cat will depend on the luck of the draw.
How often should A FIV + cat be checked?
While a non-geriatric FIV- cat should have an annual examination, the FIV+ cat should have a check-up twice a year. Annually, a full blood panel and urinalysis is prudent. Also, it is important to be vigilant of any changes in the FIV+ cat.
Is it necessary to isolate a FIV + cat?
Isolation of an FIV+ cat is not necessary in a stable household unless the FIV+ cat is likely to fight with the other residents. That said, it is important not to introduce any new cats as this is likely to lead to fighting and consequent virus transmission. WHAT DO I DO NOW?
How is FIV transmitted from cat to cat?
It was first isolated in the mid-1980s in a community of feral cats, but it has since been transferred to domestic cats. It is classified as a ” Lentivirus “, meaning that it is a type of retrovirus which has long incubation periods. FIV affects different types of immune cells in the cat’s body.
1. Cats Infected With FIV Can Live Long and Healthy Lives. With proper care, a FIV+ cat can live a long and comfortable life. In fact, it’s not uncommon for cats infected with FIV to live up to 12 years! Like with any cat, the lifespan of an FIV+ cat will depend on the luck of the draw.
What to do if your cat has FIV?
The best way to prevent your cat from contracting the virus is to keep your cat indoors and never let your cat roam free outside. Indoor cats have the lowest risk of contracting the virus. In addition, if your cat is going to be spending any time around other felines, make sure all cats have tested negative for FIV.
Why are older cats more likely to pass on FIV?
This is because older male cats are more likely to fight with other cats for territory and mates. Feral cats are also more likely to pass on the disease, but if you have an outdoor cat with feral cats in the area, it increases the risk. There are other methods of transmission, but they are much less common.
Can a mother cat transmit FIV to her kittens?
Mother cats cannot readily infect their kittens (except in the initial stages of infection). FIV can be transmitted sexually and via improperly screened blood transfusions. Casual contact such as sharing food bowls, or snuggling is very unlikely to be associated with transmission. Isolation of an FIV+ cat is not necessary in a stable household
