Read About Feline AIDS Symptoms

 -- Causes & Facts

1. Problem Definition:

   Feline AIDS is similar to human AIDS or feline leukemia in that it causes the immune system of the animal to weaken against other viruses, bacteria and fungi. It is caused by the feline immunodeficiency virus.

2. Most common Cause:

   Feline immunodeficiency virus spreads through physical contact with carrier cats. It is found in the saliva of infected cats. The most common mode is through animal bites.

3. Physical Reasons:

   Cats can become infected with feline AIDS through:
   1. Contact with saliva of the infected cats
   2. Bites from infected cats
   3. From gestation or lactation

4. Emotional Reasons:

   Stress in not a direct cause of feline AIDS. But ill or stressed cats have weakened immune systems that make them vulnerable to infections.

 -- Prevention & Treatments

1. What to Watch for:

   Gum diseases, skin infections, weight loss and recurring infections of the respiratory tract are commonly manifestations of the disease.

2. Precautions:

   Vaccinations are available but they do NOT guarantee complete immunity. If your cat comes home with bite wounds, take him immediately to the local vet.

3. Prevention:

   Prevent your cat from roaming outdoors as much as possible, especially if they tend to pick fights with strays. Also try isolate infected cats from others.

4. Treatment:

   An infected cat can still live for many happy years if taken cared of well. Treatment includes regulated diet, administration of certain drugs like Immuno Regulin. Drugs vary in response and also there aren't many for feline AIDS. The cat should not be unduly stressed.

5. Helpful Supplies:

   High-calorie diet supplements, anti-microbial drugs to prevent other diseases can be very useful.

 - Concerns

1. Level of Seriousness:

   If proper care and treatments are given to the infected cat, the risks can be significantly reduced and the cat can live like any other non-infected pet. But if uncared for or if treatments are neglected, the consequences may be very severe or fatal.

2. Genetics:

   Older cats are more susceptible to the disease due to weakened immune systems. Hereditary aggression is also an important issue, for such species tend to pick fights with strays easily.

3. Lifestyle Accommodations:

   Important adjustments include isolation of the infected cat and regular treatments.

4. Family Issues:

   Stress and fatigue can be detrimental to the infected cat's health. Ask the family members not to unduly tire the cat. Note that the disease can not infect humans - retroviruses are species specific.

5. Expense:

   Initial stages may not prove to be expensive except for a few adjustments in diet and lifestyle. But advanced stages can be fairly expensive, especially if the animal becomes infected with other diseases like cancer, feline cystitis, etc.