Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) was discovered in 1987 by a group of researchers at the University of California at Davis who reported an unknown virus in cats exhibiting an AIDS-like disease.

When FIV surfaced, many people wondered whether cats could spread the virus to humans. To date, researchers believe the virus is exclusive to cats and does not affect other species.

Much like cats infected with the feline leukemia virus, FIV patients usually are chronically ill. Signs include infections of the mouth, teeth, and gums; chronic upper respiratory infections; intestinal infections; swollen lymph nodes; fever; and low white blood cell counts.

Unlike feline leukemia virus which can be transmitted from one cat to another from salivary contamination of food and water bowls and from social grooming practices, the FIV virus seems to be transmitted mainly by cat bites.

Studies have shown that high-risk cats are free-roaming males of mixed parentage over six years of age. Free-roaming males are the most territorial and engage in the most fighting behavior. Infected males outnumber infected females by three to one in the U.S. and Canada. Indoor cats are not at high risk of contracting FIV.

FIV has been found in every country where researchers have looked for it. However, the number of cats with FIV infection is not rising at an explosive rate and researchers believe that the infection rate among cats has reached a stable plateau.

Unfortunately at this time, there is no cure for cats that are infected with the FIV virus. Once a cat is infected, the infection persists for life. However, the patient usually responds for periods of time to supportive care.

Veterinarians can easily and accurately test for FIV. A vaccine is now available to protect against FIV infection. It is controversial because once a cat is vaccinated, it will test positive.

The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) cares about you and your pet’s health and provides this information to help you understand the illnesses that affect your pet. Your veterinarian is a member of AAHA which is well-known among veterinarians for it standards for pet health care.