Understanding Feline AIDS: Essential Info for Cat Owner

Section 1: Symptoms of Feline AIDS

Just like in humans, the symptoms of feline AIDS are not directly caused by the virus itself, but rather by the resulting immunodeficiency. This immunodeficiency leaves the cat vulnerable to opportunistic pathogens and microorganisms that would otherwise be harmless, leading to severe secondary infections!

The clinical manifestations of feline AIDS include:

Cats may develop chronic stomatitis and gingivitis, among other oral inflammations.

They may experience fever, gradual weight loss, lymphadenitis, and anemia.

Diarrhea and symptoms of neurological disorders may also occur.

Section 2: Transmission Routes of Feline AIDS

Let's clear up a common misconception right away: feline AIDS is not transmitted through sexual contact, which sets it apart from human AIDS. Instead, it is primarily transmitted through bite wounds. Cats sharing food and water bowls typically do not lead to the transmission of the Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV). Additionally, although the possibility of FIV transmission through the placenta has been confirmed, it has not been conclusively proven in clinical settings.

4. Cats Prone to Feline AIDS Infection

Understanding the transmission routes of feline AIDS helps us identify which cats are most susceptible to FIV. While any cat can be infected, those that are more aggressive and prone to fighting should be extra cautious. The infection rate is higher among adult cats aged 5 to 19, with male cats having a significantly higher infection rate than female cats, often more than double. Cats in multicat households are also more likely to be infected than those in singlecat households. Stray and wild cats have a higher infection rate than domesticated cats, and neutered cats have a lower chance of infection.

For more information on feline AIDS, click on "What to Do If Your Cat Has AIDS" to learn more.