FIV Vaccine

Many people are not even aware of the fact that cat's get FIV. FIV is very similar to HIV but only affects cats.

In July 2003, Fort Dodge introduced a new vaccine for cats to prevent FIV (Feline Aids).  There is controversy regarding the use of this vaccine.  Therefore, it is important you make an informed decision.  Remember all cats should receive only those vaccines that are appropriate for their life style and risk factors.

Many people are not even aware of the fact that cat's get FIV.   FIV is very similar to HIV but only affects cats.  It causes suppression of the immune system.  Therefore, cats with FIV can present with a wide variety of signs including non-healing wounds, upper respiratory infections, severe gum disease, weight loss, and chronic diarrhea.  The American Association of Feline Practitioners strongly recommends testing any ill cat for both Feline Aids and Feline leukemia (FELV).   FIV is mainly contracted via bite wounds. Therefore, it is primarily seen in cats that have a history of being outdoors at some point in their life.

Until now, there was no vaccine for FIV available.  It was very exciting to hear this vaccine was being produced.  However, as with any new vaccine it is important to know the facts.  First, it has been shown that FIV has five subtypes- A, B, C, D, and E.  In this area, subtypes A and B seem to occur in the greatest frequency. Unfortunately, the vaccine has only been shown to protect against subtypes A and D.  Second, if a cat has been vaccinated for FIV it will test positive for FIV.  Current tests cannot distinguish between vaccinated cats and infected cat.  This becomes a problem if the cat is sick.  We will not know if a positive test is due to having FIV or because it was vaccinated.  In addition, many people adopt cats with unknown histories.  These cats are routinely tested during their first vet exam to help determine their overall health status and whether or not they are safe to join a multicat household.  If the cat tests positive, it is often euthanized.  Many shelters also test cats for FELV and FIV.  Due to the limited space in most shelters and the overabundance of homeless animals, these cats are often euthanized if they test positive.  Unfortunately, with the introduction of this vaccine some cats will end up being euthanized that are actually healthy cats.  Third, it is not known how soon the vaccine actually becomes protective.   Cats used to study the effectiveness of the vaccine were not challenged until 1 year after receiving the vaccine.

Therefore, if you decide to vaccinate your cat please have it tested prior to vaccination.  Make sure you keep accurate records of which vaccines your cat receives.  If your cat does not go outside and does not have exposure to other cats that go outside, I would not vaccinate for either FIV or FELV.   As with any new vaccine, I will wait for more information before I use it in my practice.

-Dr. Sue Marshall, Feline Medical Center, Inc.