FIV and FeLV in Cats

FeLV and FIV are two significant viral infections in cats. FeLV is highly contagious through close contact, while FIV spreads primarily through bite wounds. In Singapore, studies suggest that approximately 16% of tested cats have FIV antibodies, indicating past or present infection, while around 9% test positive for FeLV, signifying active infection.

FIV and FeLV-infected cats often do not show immediate symptoms, but as the infection progresses, their condition worsens and they become immunocompromised. This makes them vulnerable to other bacteria, viruses, and fungi, potentially causing life-threatening conditions. For this reason, owners need to be well-educated on FeLV and FIV, so that they can provide their cats with proper care and take steps to protect them from these harmful viruses.

What is FeLV?

Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) is a retrovirus that affects cats. It is especially concerning as it is the leading cause of cancer in felines, significantly increasing the risk of lymphoma and leukaemia. FeLV-infected cats also develop weakened immune systems, making them susceptible to infections from even typically harmless bacteria and microorganisms.

FeLV is primarily transmitted through saliva, nasal secretions, mutual grooming, and shared food or water bowls. Infected cats may remain asymptomatic for months or years before showing signs of illness. When symptoms do appear, they often worsen gradually but may cycle through periods when the cat appears symptom-free.

There are three categories of FeLV infection outcomes:

• Abortive Infection: The cat’s immune system successfully eliminates the virus before it establishes infection. This is the best-case scenario but may not occur in all exposed cats.
• Regressive Infection: The virus is cleared from the bloodstream but remains in the bone marrow and can reactivate under stress or immunosuppression.
• Progressive Infection: The immune system cannot control FeLV, leading to persistent viral replication. Many progressively infected cats develop severe illness, with an average survival of 2-3 years, but some can live longer with appropriate care.

What is FIV?

Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) is a feline-specific virus that damages and weakens a cat’s immune system, making them more vulnerable to other infections and diseases. FIV-positive cats can live normal lifespans with proper preventative healthcare, although they are more vulnerable to secondary infections. FIV typically progresses slowly, with many cats remaining asymptomatic for years before immune decline occurs.

Causes of FeLV and FIV

FeLV is primarily transmitted through direct contact between cats. Prolonged close interactions, such as grooming, sharing food bowls or litter trays, mating, or bite wounds, increase the risk of infection. Pregnant cats with FeLV can also pass the virus to their kittens, but they are likely to experience infertility or pregnancy loss.

FIV is primarily spread through deep bite wounds, with outdoor and unneutered male cats at the highest risk due to territorial fighting. Unlike FeLV, FIV is rarely transmitted from an infected mother to her kittens.

Signs and Symptoms of FeLV and FIV

In the early stages, FeLV and FIV often show no symptoms, making them hard to detect. By the time signs appear, the immune system is often weakened, leading to various health issues, including:

• Poor appetite and weight loss
• Diarrhoea and vomiting
• Lethargy
• Eye diseases
• Dental diseases
• Respiratory infections
• Poor coat condition
• Skin infections

As the disease progresses, secondary infections become more common. Preventative care, including regular parasite control, early dental intervention, and prompt treatment of infections, is essential.

Is FeLV or FIV Treatable?

While there is currently no cure for FeLV or FIV, supportive care can help manage symptoms and improve a cat’s quality of life. Cats can live relatively normal lives if their conditions are managed correctly.

With proper care, FIV-positive cats often live normal lifespans, whereas FeLV-positive cats have a reduced lifespan, though some live beyond three years with appropriate management.

Some antiviral medications, such as zidovudine (AZT), have been explored for FIV and FeLV management, though their effectiveness is still debated.

Safeguarding Your Cat Against FeLV and FIV

Vaccinations

At Mount Pleasant, FeLV vaccines are available and are considered core for at-risk cats, such as those in multi-cat environments or with outdoor access. On the other hand, we do not offer FIV vaccines. This is due to their limited efficacy and potential drawbacks, such as testing positive on antibody tests.

Depending on your cat's unique needs, our veterinary team will develop a tailored vaccination plan to ensure the best possible care.

Multi-Cat Households

Responsible pet ownership is vital in preventing the spread of FeLV and FIV, especially in multi-cat households.

Precautions include keeping infected cats separate from healthy ones, using separate food bowls, litter boxes, and toys, and avoiding activities like mutual grooming or rough play. Infected cats should remain indoors to prevent contact with other cats. Regular screenings are also crucial, as some cats may carry the virus without symptoms.

While these measures greatly reduce transmission risks, some risks remain when infected and healthy cats share the same home.

Caring for a Cat With FeLV or FIV

If your cat is diagnosed with FeLV or FIV despite preventive measures, know that there are still ways to ensure they receive the best care. Regular vet check-ups, ideally every six months, are essential for close monitoring of their condition. Routine exams, blood tests, and prescribed treatments can help manage the virus and keep your cat stable. Other aspects of their care include:

• Proper Diet and Nutrition (avoiding raw diets)
• Early Dental Care
• Parasite Control
• Isolation and Hygiene
• Constant Symptom Monitoring
• Stress Reduction
• Pet Wellness Planning

While living with FeLV or FIV presents challenges, your cat can still enjoy many years of love, companionship, and a good quality of life when provided with attentive care. If you have questions or concerns about managing your cat's health, our veterinary team is here to provide guidance and support every step of the way.