What Are The Warning Signs?

Feline Leukemia (FeLV) and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) are contagious and potentially fatal diseases.  These viruses are associated with the illness and death of more cats than any other group of infectious diseases.

Vets have long considered them hard to diagnose, but new research has identified symptoms and behaviors that indicate when infection is most likely, and when a cat should be tested.

The symptoms for both FeLV and FIV include fever, diarrhea, vomiting, abscesses, gingivitis, weight loss and swollen lymph nodes.  One in four cats with even one of the signs listed here is likely to test positive.

However, a cat with no symptoms may test positive for either virus.  Cats most at risk are outdoor cats, cats that fight, or share food and water with other cats, and cats in multi-cat households.

When a cat's behavior puts it at risk, or when a cat shows clinical signs, it makes sense to have your cat tested.
 
 

If Your Cat Tests Positive...

A cat infected with Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) or with Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) may continue to live happily for some time.  Your veterinarian may recommend the following steps:
	Keep your cat indoors to limit its exposure to other infections, and to prevent your cat from spreading its illness.
	Keep your cat's environment as stress-free as possible, providing it with a comfortable place to rest, and limiting its interaction with people or other pets that may annoy it.
	Provide your cat with plenty of fresh water at all times.
	Keep your cat on a regular, healthy diet.
	Schedule regular veterinary check-ups to monitor your cat's condition, and to diagnose and treat any secondary infections early.
	If you have other cats in your househol, have them tested for FeLV and FIV as well.