Three Serious Viral Cat Diseases

FELINE LEUKEMIA VIRUS (FELV)

Feline Leukemia is the leading viral killer of cats today. The virus is spread by prolonged cat-to-cat contact and through bite wounds. The virus is shed in saliva, tears, urine, and feces. It is unstable in the environment and easily killed by warmth and drying. Fifty percent of these cats also have Feline Infectious Peritonitis. Half of these cats die because of Secondary Infections and ninety percent develop cancer.

FACT: A pregnant cat infected with leukemia can transmit the disease to her unborn kittens.

SIGNS OF FELINE LEUKEMIA VIRUS

Signs for FELV and FIV can include those of any severe long-term illness because both viruses interfere with your cat’s natural ability to ward off infection.

The most common signs for leukemia are:

• Pale whitish gum color instead of normal bright pink color and weakness (occurs due to red blood cell loss which is called Anemia.)

• Yellow discoloration to skin called jaundice (occurs due to liver failure )

• Depression, appetite and weight loss

FELINE IMMUNO DEFICIENCY VIRUS (FELINE AIDS)

Feline Immuno Deficiency Virus is abbreviated as FIV and occasionally referred to as Feline Aids. Aggressive outdoor non-neutered male cats are most often infected and the virus is usually spread through bite wounds. Feline Immuno Deficiency Virus and Feline Leukemia Virus both attack and impair the body’s immune system and interfere with the cat’s natural ability to protect himself. Secondary infections cause the majority of symptoms and are the major cause of death in FIV infected cats.

SIGNS OF FIV

Severe chronic gum disease (gingivitis) and recurrent mouth infections in fat cats are the most common signs seen in over half of FIV cats. Appetite Loss, poor hair coats and a fever are also common. Late in the disease, weight loss and severe wasting occur.

FELINE LEUKEMIA / FELINE IMMUNO DEFICIENCY VIRUS/ FELINE INFECTIOUS PERITONITIS; WHAT YOU AND YOUR VET CAN DO

Blood tests accurately detect Feline Leukemia Virus and Feline Immuno deficiency Virus. A cat infected with FELV can live for months to years. Cats with FIV rarely survive over two years. True life expectancy is impossible to predict. Since both viruses suppress the cat’s ability to naturally protect himself, they become much more susceptible to other infections and cats are affected with a variety of recurrent illnesses, interspersed with periods of relatively normal health.

PREVENTION

Vaccination for leukemia is the key to prevention. Vaccines are available for FIP and the Feline Immunodeficiency Virus but remain controversial. Discuss these options with your vet

DIAGNOSIS OF FIP

A tissue biopsy of the affected site or analysis of affected cells called a cytology are the only ways to confirm FIP diagnosis.

THERAPY FOR FELV & FIV & FIP