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FIV, Feline Aids
(FIV stands for Feline Immunodeficiency Virus)
The virus spreads through more or less violent contact from a cat infected with FIV. The virus multiplies slowly.
The disease has several stages. Immediately after infection, the cat shows symptoms of a common viral infection. The lymph nodes are somewhat enlarged. Afterwards the cat enters the incubation period, which can last for years. During that period the cat can transmit the disease.
In the next period the cat gets mild complaints, e.g. fever, eye problems (inflammation), eats less, and loses weight.
The complaints can keep recurring (chronic). The symptoms become increasingly severe until the AIDS stage is reached.
The cat develops serious health problems and possible neurological disorders, resulting in death.
FIV can be easily tested by
means of a "SNAP" test.