LEGACY COIT ANIMAL HOSPITAL

972-618-7499

 

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 Up to 1 in 12 cats in the U.S. tests positive for Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV), the feline version of HIV that causes AIDS in humans.
There is a simple test available to see if your cat has been infected with either of these deadly diseases. FIV is typically spread when one cat bites another. The initial symptoms are quite similar to those of the Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV). Both FIV and FeLV interfere with the immune system's ability to ward off infections. FeLV is spread to healthy cats when they come in contact with saliva or urine from an infected cat (sharing bowls, cat boxes, grooming).

Everyday bacteria and viruses that normally would not affect healthy cats can make FIV and FeLV infected cats very ill. 

Symptoms to Watch For In Your Kitty:

  • Decreased appetite
  • Decreased grooming
  • Decreased energy
  • Weight loss
  • Pale gums
  • Diarrhea
  • Abscesses
The Legacy Coit Animal Hospital recommends testing in the following situations:

If your kitty has never been tested before.

If your kitty is sick - even if it has been tested before.

Newly adopted kitties should be tested.

If your kitty has been exposed to an infected cat (if your cat goes outside, chances are it has met an infected cat).

Prior to receiving their Feline Leukemia vaccine.

PLEASE CALL US IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS!

972-618-7499
 

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