FLV (feline aids) is killing cats at a rapid rate and until recently, their has been no cure or prevention. Recent studies show that between 14% and 29% of cats in Australia test positive to FLV. Cats allowed outside are at the highest risk of getting the disease due to FLV being primarily spread through cat bite wounds. It is also possible for infected mothers to pass on the infection to her unborn foetus.

Feline aids can not be transferred from cats to humans, but the disease does act in the same way as HIV by destroying the Immune system. Some initial symptoms may include fever, loss of appetite, diarrhoea, lethargy and swollen lymph nodes. As the disease progresses infected cats encounter weight loss, sores in and around the mouth, eye lesions, poor coat and chronic infections. Eventually the immune system is too weak to fight off other diseases and as a result the cat dies from subsequent infections.

A new vaccine against the disease is now available, just ask your vet !