What Every Cat Owner Should Know About Detection and Care
Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) is a slow-progressing but serious virus that weakens your cat’s immune system over time. Often compared to HIV in humans, FIV itself doesn’t directly cause death but makes cats more vulnerable to infections and other illnesses.
This guide covers essential information about FIV, including how it spreads, signs to watch for, treatment strategies, and practical ways to detect it early—even from home.
What is FIV?
FIV is a retrovirus belonging to the lentivirus family that affects only cats. It attacks white blood cells, specifically T-helper cells, which play a crucial role in immune defense. Over