WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF FeLV or FIV?
As noted above, FeLV and FIV can cause many different disease entities, so there is no exact set of symptoms that are purely indicative of either disease. These viruses are much like the human AIDS virus, although people cannot be infected, and multiple unusual problems can occur. Symptoms may include weight loss, poor coat, loss of appetite, anemia, diarrhea, weakness, reproductive disorders, gum inflammation, enlarged lymph nodes, fever and recurrent or persistent infections. IS THERE TREATMENT IF MY CAT HAS FeLV or FIV? Currently we have only experimental treatments and supportive care, which has helped a few cats recover. If your cat is infected we would be happy to discuss these with you. Prevention is still the best route to follow. HOW DO I KNOW IF MY CAT HAS EITHER OF THESE VIRUSES? A simple 10 minute blood test that we can perform in our office is available. ARE INDOOR-ONLY CATS SAFE? To some extent, indoor cats do have a decreased risk of infection, but many cats can pick up
