First discovered in
1986 in California. It has since been found in every country that has tested for it.
The FIV virus cannot live for long outside of the cat's body. It can be spread though casual contact (through saliva), but is most often spread by bite wounds. Because male cats get into more fights than females, they are twice as likely to come down with FIV.
FIV attacks white blood cells (T helper cells) within the first six weeks of infection. Some cats may experience swollen lymph nodes, anemia, diarrhea, or fever. The virus may also lie dormant for years.
The loss of white blood cells makes chronic infection more likely.
Your vet can probably test you cat for FIV. There is currently no vaccination.
A kitten may carry antibodies from its mothers' milk until about six month of age. Any kitten who tests positive before this time should be retested again when it is older.
FIV cannot infect humans or dogs.