FELINE LEUKEMIA AND FELINE AIDS

Feline leukemia virus (FEL V) is a fatal infectious virus that affects the immune system and can cause anemia and several forms of cancer and other associated diseases. It is transmitted through the saliva (primarily bit wounds), urine, and feces of infected cants and can be passed to kittens of infected queens. There is no link between feline leukemia and human forms of leukemia.

Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) is similar to human acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), but it is not the same virus and cannot be passed to humans. This fatal virus attacks the immune system. causing a variety of symptoms. General signs can include chronic infectious unresponsive to antibiotics; respiratory problems; appetite loss; persistent diarrhea; and severe oral infections.  FIV is passed from cat to cat primarily through bites that typically occur in battles over territory or during reproduction. There us currently no vaccination or cure for FIV.

to prevent your healthy cat from contracting FELV or FIV, keep him other inside and get the proper vaccinations. Your veterinarian will recommend testing for FELV and FIV in any new cat companions before you introduce them to your healthy cat.
There is no vaccination available to prevent FIV (feline AIDS). Vaccination against FEL V is strongly advised for those cats determined to be at risk. Dr. Stewart cautions cat owners in the north San Diego County area to consult with their veterinarian to discuss the risk of this disease to their cats and the need for vaccination. Cats that are allowed outdoors are at risk for contracting FEL V and FIV from infected stray cats. Any cat that is treated for a known or suspected cat bite would should be test for FEL V and FIV four to six weeks after exposure. Treatment may extend the life of cats that show the virus on the blood test but there is no cure for either disease.

Founded in 1938, the mission of the NCHS & SPCA is to promote a humane and sustainable environment for all animals, including humans; to protest animals from neglect, abuse and exploitation; to advocate for their interest and welfare, and to educate the public in responsible and compassionate stewardship.