FELINE IMMUNODEFICIENCY VIRUS (FIV)

FIV is the feline version of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). There are a few cats at the shelter who tested positive for FIV. It is not a definitive death sentence and properly cared for FIV cats can live quite normal lives and have normal life spans. The concern comes to play when secondary infections occur such as upper resporatory infection.

FIV is transmitted most commonly through saliva to blood (biting). It can sometimes be passed on from a mother cat to her kittens during gestation but not all of the time. Associated problems can range from skin irritations & diarrhea to kidney failure. Omega 3 & 6 fatty acids can be added to the diet as well as vitamins and anti-oxidants. A close eye should be kept on FIV cats but to ensure that it is not spread, FIV+ cats should be kept indoors and should either be the only cat within the home or in a home with other FIV positive cats.

To prevent your cat fom contracting the virus, there are vaccines available so inquire about it. Kittens should not be tested for the virus prior to 6 months to ensure an accurate diagnosis.

All-in-all...KEEP YOUR CAT INDOORS! ALWAYS!

Here are some cats at the Oakville Humane that have tested positive for FIV. They are great cats that deserve a home just like any other. To ease the minds of the uninformed and/or misinformed, FIV cannot be transmitted to humans in any way. HAPPY ADOPTING!

"KYLE"

Help out an FIV positive cat today! Ask about Kyle at the shelter.


"SPENCER"

Help out this fun-loving guy by inviting him into your life. Adopt Spencer!


"ACHILLES"

You can make a difference in Achilles' (pronounced AH-KIL-LEEZ) life now. Inquire about him at the shelter.