Cat Illnesses

What is Feline Immunodeficiency Virus? Virologists classify feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) as a lentivirus (or "slow virus"). FIV is in the same retrovirus family as feline leukemia virus (FeLV), but the viruses differ in many ways including their shape. FIV is elongated, while FeLV is more circular. The two viruses are also quite different genetically, and the proteins that compose them are dissimilar in size and composition. The specific ways in which they cause disease differ, as well. How common is the infection? FIV-infected cats are found worldwide, but the prevalence of infection varies greatly. In the United States, approximately 1.5 to 3 percent ... Read Full Story

FIV is a slow-acting virus. It's a cat's version of HIV that results in AIDS for humans. People cannot catch FIV, so don't worry! Many times FIV is not detected until the cat has become quite sick. The virus reproduces inside white blood cells (the ones that fight infection) and spreads throughout the lymphatic system . Swollen lymph nodes and fever is the initial result. Over time, the immune system becomes increasingly weakened and the cat loses it's ability to fight even the simplest of infections. Healthy cats can fight off the normal bacteria, viruses, protozoa, and fungi of their environment but FIV cats ... Read Full Story

Both older and younger pets are more predisposed to disease. They are also more prone to progression of a disease and treatment failure. This happens because in older pets the vital organs and systems start to loose their functionality and, in puppies and kittens these organs and systems have not developed completely. Read Full Story

SYMPTOMS: SNEEZING NASAL DISCHARGE RUNNY EYES COUGH ORAL OR NASAL ULCERS SNIFFLES FEVER HOARSE VOICE OR ANY COMBINATION THEROF What cats are at risk? Despite the highly contagious nature of all the feline upper respiratory agents, it is important to realize that most cats are at very small risk for exposure. In other words, in order to get this kind of infection, a cat must be in the same home as an infected cat or share the same human caretaker, toys or food bowls. Typically infected cats come from the shelter, are outdoor cats, or are housed in close contact with lots of other ... Read Full Story

Feline Calicivirus or FCV is spread by direct contact with eye or nasal discharge and saliva. It may also be spread by coming into contact with the water bowl or litter box of an infected cat. In the beginning symptoms include nasal and eye discharge, sneezing, and fever. As the disease progresses, drooling will be seen due to the ulceration of the mouth and the tongue. The cat will stop eating, lose weight, and breathing will become more and more difficult. Treatment will involve the use of antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications. The nose and eyes can be kept clear of discharge by using a ... Read Full Story