FIV and FeLV are two separate viruses that can affect cats, both targeting a cat’s immune system. Here’s a breakdown of each:
FIV (Feline immunodeficiency virus):
- Weakens a cat’s immune system, making them more susceptible to infections, similar to HIV in humans (but not transmissible to humans).
- Spread through deep bite wounds from infected cats.
- Can also be passed from mother to kittens during pregnancy or nursing.
- Not all FIV+ cats develop serious illness, some may live long healthy lives.
- There is no cure for FIV, but good veterinary care can help manage the condition.
FeLV (Feline leukemia virus):
- Can cause various illnesses like leukemia, anemia, and cancer.
- Spread through bodily fluids like saliva, urine, and blood. Sharing food and water bowls with an infected cat can transmit FeLV.
- More aggressive than FIV, with a shorter lifespan for infected cats.
- No cure exists, but vaccines can help prevent infection.
Key similarities:
- Both are retroviruses affecting a cat’s immune system.
- Neither can infect humans or other animal species besides cats.
- Spread primarily through close contact between cats.
- No cure exists for either virus.
Key differences:
- FIV weakens the immune system, making cats susceptible to various infections, while FeLV itself can cause cancers and other diseases.
- FIV transmission is more limited (deep bites) compared to FeLV (various bodily fluids).
- FIV+ cats can live relatively healthy lives, while FeLV has a more severe prognosis.
- A vaccine can help prevent FeLV, but no such vaccine exists for FIV.
