FelV is an incurable virus that attacks and weakens the immune system.  The weakened immune system allows germs to invade the body and damage vital organs.  Simple wounds and illnesses that a healthy feline can usually overcome on their own are dangerous to the FelV+ cat.  It is easily spread from cat to cat, mainly through saliva.  Communal grooming, fights(bites) and sexual contact are the three most common transmitters of this illness, however the virus can live and infect without a live host for several weeks in kennels, carriers and even on "clean" surfaces in your home.  FelV does not affect humans or other species of pets.  It ONLY infects cats.  As felines are very social animals, the best prevention is to keep your cat indoors and away from unknown and stray cats.  There is an annual vaccination available, but you should discuss it with your vet extensively before deciding that's the route you want to take with your pet.

There are three known types of FelV

1. Initial Infection and Acquired Immunity:  It's estimated that 70-80% of all adult cats have been exposed to FelV at some time in their life.  They would test positive at the time of exposure, but are able to overcome the infection and develop immunity.  They are contagious to other cats before they become immune.

2. Latent Infection:  Some cats are unable to readily overcome initial infection.  They harbor the virus for a period of time before developing immunity.  Their body's defenses are just good enough to fend off symptoms and surprisingly, they do not shed the virus to infect other cats while they harbor it.  Most cats with Latent Infection become virus-free and immune within a few years, but some will become actively infected and become contagious to other cats.

3. Active Infection:  FelV-related diseases may become apparent, sometimes after several years of being symptom-free.  Cats with Active Infection are contagious to other cats, even though they may show no symptoms themselves.

Your beloved cat has just been diagnosed FelV Positive.  Take a deep breath and DON'T PANIC!  While this was usually an immediate 'death sentence' a few short years ago, it is no longer the case.  Extensive research has helped your veterinarian develop specific ways to help you maintain a good quality of life for your pet, often for many years.

Helping Your FelV+ Cat

Now that you're aware your cat has FelV, it's crucial that you keep him indoors.  If you haven't had your cat altered yet, NOW's the time to do it.  Not only will it prevent unwanted infected litters, but will help temper your cat's desire to go out.  Providing a comfortable, stress-free environment plays a critical role in caring for your pet.  It's very important to check your cat daily for signs of illness or infections.  Lumps, bumps, mouth or ear odor, cloudy or runny eyes or runny nose, changes in food or water intake, litterbox habits or personality are all good indications that it's time to see the vet.  Prompt medical attention could mean the difference between a small medical bill and an enormous one, slight discomfort and agonizing pain or even the life or death of your cat.

Message from Peg

Please be a good purrson!  Spay or neuter your cat and try to keep them safe indoors.  If your cat is FelV+, prevent their spreading it to your neighbor's cats and local strays by strictly keeping your pet indoors.  While your cat has the good fortune to have YOU to care for him or her, most strays have no one.  They suffer terribly from this virus before they die alone.

Thanks for caring!

Peg & The Furcrew