The Dangerous Cat Viruses
wThere are a number of viruses that we CAN vaccinate against in cats and some that we cannot. These viruses that we cannot protect our pets from are obviously very worrying.
wThe dangerous viruses that we cannot vaccinate against include FIV which is basically cat AIDS (but not transmissible to humans) caught by cats fighting or mating. We tend to see this disease in unneutered, stray tomcats who try to defend their territories against your family pet and this is how the disease can be transmitted.
wIt is not fatal on its own, but like the human version of AIDS, it causes a suppression of your cat’s immunity which means they can die of basic diseases such as an infection or a cold which can progress rapidly to pneumonia.
wFortunately this virus does not survive for long outside the animal and once an infected cat had been removed from the home, there should be little risk for a new cat coming into the household.
wSome very dedicated owners who have this terribly debilitating disease diagnosed in their cats, need to treat them with extra care. They have to become indoor cats as they are then a disease risk to other cats and any sign of any infections, they need to be treated immediately. You must find out as a pet sitter whether any cats are positive for FIV as they will need extra care.
wThey need an excellent diet full of anti-oxidants to boost their immunity – one of the better ranges of cat foods for senior cats would provide this. Obviously neutering your cat – both male or female reduces the risks of it getting FIV.
wFIP or Feline Infectious Peritonitis is another very debilitating and worrying disease as it cannot be vaccinated against, is fatal and is very non-specific and difficult to diagnose – a diagnosis is sadly sometimes only made once the cat has died.
wBreeding catteries are most at risk as it is contagious (but only certain cats can get it) and you could purchase a cat that appears healthy but may show symptoms in its early years. They do not put on weight and appear ill and lethargic with non specific signs such as a swollen fluid-filled belly or sometimes brown spots in their eyes - very sad for a vet to suspect as you know that there is nothing that can be done in a young cat if they have it. If you have other cats in your household, they would need to be tested for it, but some cats may shed the virus but never show specific symptoms. If you are a breeder and are concerned about FIP and need more information, click here.
wOn a happier note, the viruses we can protect your much-loved cat from, include Feline Panleukopaenia – which causes sickness and diarrhoea in cats, Feline Calicivirus, Feline Rhinotracheitis and Feline Herpes virus – which cause cat flu, Feline Chlamydia psittaci – which causes conjunctivitis and Feline Leukaemia which causes cancer in young cats. 50% of cats infected with Feline Leukaemia die within 6 months and 80% within 3 years.
wAny cat going abroad will also need to be vaccinated against Rabies. Thank goodness we can protect our cats from all of these nasties.
If you want to know about how to stimulate your cat's immunity if he has FIV, then click on my cat e-book below. I cover other important treatments of your cat safely at home.
Return to cat health
Return to abortion article
|
