Every cat that goes through our foster home network is tested for the Feline Immonodeficiency Virus (FIV) and the Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV).

FIV and FeLV infections are major causes of illness and death in cats. Surveys show that up to 15 percent of sick cats are infected with one or both of the viruses, and that even healthy cats may harbor infections and spread them to other cats.  The American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP), an organization of veterinarians with a special interest in the health of cats, urges all cats and kittens to be tested for FIV and FeLV

We hope that potential adopters, friends and supporters find the following health facts gleaned from the Cornell Feline Health Center and resources at Best Friends about FIV enlightening.
 

FIV Facts 1. The Feline Immuno-deficiency Virus is a slow virus that affects a cat's immune system over a period of years. 2. FIV is a cat only disease and cannot be spread to humans or other non-felines. 3. FIV cats most often live long, healthy, and relatively normal lives with no symptoms at all.

4. FIV is not easily passed between cats. It cannot be spread casually - like in litter boxes, water and food bowls, or when snuggling and playing. It is rarely spread from a mother to her kittens. 5. The virus can be spread through blood transfusions, badly infected gums, or serious, penetrating bite wounds. (Bite wounds of this kind are extremely rare, except in free roaming unaltered tomcats.) 6. A neutered cat, in a home, is extremely unlikely to infect other cats, if properly introduced. 7. Many vets are not educated about FIV since the virus was only discovered 15 years ago. 8. FIV-positive cats should be kept as healthy as possible. Keep them indoors and free from stress, feed them a high-quality diet, keep and treat any secondary problems as soon as they arise. (Continued on Page 5)