Feline immunodeficiency syndrome (feline AIDS)

Feline immunodeficiency syndrome (feline AIDS) is a disease caused by the Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV). FIV, although very similar to HIV, only affects cats, so there is no risk of infection for people in contact with FIV-positive cats. This virus attacks the immune system, and this causes a gradual deterioration in the cat's immune function. Once infected, the cat will have the disease for life. FIV transmission generally occurs through infected saliva, mainly through bites. It is also transmitted from mother to child during pregnancy, childbirth or breastfeeding. It has not yet been determined whether it can be transmitted sexually. The symptoms may coincide with other diseases. In the early stages it can be asymptomatic, although eventually some symptoms develop. Among the most common is gradual weight loss, conjunctivitis, gingivitis, stomatitis and diarrhea. The appearance of recurrent illnesses is also a symptom of the presence of the virus. The only treatment for this disease is to boost the immune system, vaccinate against other diseases, avoid stress and contact with other cats and other risk agents, and eat a healthy diet. As a prevention, it is recommended to control the cat's outings, sterilize and test new cats brought into the house. The diagnosis of FIV is made through antibody detection, culture or PCR.

FIV has a worldwide distribution, with a variable prevalence depending on the area and the different populations of cats. It is estimated that approximately 11% of the world's cats are infected with the virus.