1st May 2006

Can you offer any advice on caring for a cat diagnosed with FIV, but showing no symptoms?

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Question:

Can you offer any advice on caring for a cat diagnosed with FIV, but showing no symptoms? Beanie is a former stray taken in three months ago. The vet has told me that she is positive, and has guessed that she is about six years old. He vaccinated her against leukaemia etc, but could give me no advice on feeding or any alternative remedies. He said that if she became ill, she could have one treatment with antibiotics, but then would probably need to be put to sleep if she became ill again. She seems very happy at present; she is lively and has put on weight. She is fed on Iams mainly. Any advice would be very much appreciated.

Answer:

I am very sorry to hear that Beanie has been exposed to the Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) - however the most important point to remember is that this is not necessarily a death sentence. FIV is a virus infection for which there is no cure, but it does not always lead to disease. If disease does develop, it is likely to be in the form of chronic frequent infections, very often in the form of chronic gum infections, or occasionally the virus can cause tumours. As Beanie is apparently perfectly healthy at the moment, there is little that you need to do other than ensure that she has a very good diet, such as Iams, and that she has a very stress-free loving environment in which to live. I would advise that you do not allow her out of the house, as she may be spread the disease to other susceptible cats. And if she does develop an infection it is certainly worth treating her, as it may not necessarily be due to the FIV infection. You should keep her yearly vaccinations up to date and have her examined regularly by your vet, perhaps every four months. You should monitor her weight monthly, as a drop in weight may be the first sign should she become ill.