Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) and feline
immunodeficiency virus (FIV) are among the most common infectious diseases of
cats. Although vaccines are available for both viruses, identification and
segregation of infected cats form the cornerstone for preventing new
infections. Currently, the majority of cats are never tested for FeLV or FIV
during their lifetime, resulting in thousands of new cases each year.
Testing for FeLV and FIV
·
All
cats should be tested at appropriate intervals based on risk assessment.
·
Test
new cats entering a household or group housing as in shelter or cattery
settings. Test again at least 60 days later, limiting exposure to other cats if
possible during that time.
·
Test if
exposed to a retrovirus infected cat at least once, 60 days after exposure.
·
Test
all sick cats, regardless of previous test results.
·
Test
before initial vaccination for FeLV or FIV.
·
Consider
annual retesting of cats that remain at risk for infection, regardless of
vaccination status.
·
Always confirm
an initial positive retrovirus test.
·
Cats
that donate blood or tissue should be tested for FeLV by real-time PCR to rule
out regressive infection that may be transmissible via transfusion or
transplantation.
·
Testing
healthy feral cats in trap–neuter–return programs is optional depending on
resources and program goals.
When To Consider FeLV Vaccination
·
Vaccination
of all kittens is highly recommended.
·
Vaccinate
cats that have direct contact with cats of known positive or uncertain status,
such as outdoor cats and group housing foster or shelter situations.
When To Consider FIV Vaccination
·
Cats
living with FIV-positive cats, particularly if there is fighting.
·
Cats
that go outside and fight.
Cats vaccinated
with the current FIV vaccine will test positive for FIV antibodies. Visible
(collar) and permanent (microchip) identification is recommended for all cats
to facilitate reunification should cats become lost. This is especially
important for cats vaccinated against FIV since a positive test in an animal
shelter may result in euthanasia.
Isolation of
infected cats using screen or chain link fence barriers is adequate to prevent
the transmission of retroviruses. Detergents and common hospital disinfectants
effectively inactivate retroviruses. Using sterile or single-use items will
deter iatrogenic infections. All blood donors should be tested at least
annually.
Management Considerations
Retrovirus-positive
cats may live many years without related illness. A decision about euthanasia
should not be made based on a positive test alone.
·
Retrovirus-positive
cats should be evaluated by a veterinarian twice a year. In addition to a
thorough physical exam, a minimum database including a complete blood count,
chemistry panel and urinalysis should be performed at least yearly. Cats with
FeLV may have complete blood counts performed twice yearly due to their
increased risk of hematological diseases.
·
Utilize
aggressive diagnostic and treatment plans early in the course of any illness.
·
Retrovirus
positive cats should be spayed or neutered, housed indoors, and should avoid
raw food diets.
·
Few
large controlled studies have been performed using antiviral or
immunomodulating drugs for the treatment of naturally infected cats. More
research is needed to identify best practices to improve long-term outcomes
following retroviral infections in cats.
Recommendations
specific to cattery, shelter and rescue situations may be found within the full
text of the guidelines.
Dr. Jim Richards
was leading the team of experts preparing this update on retroviral infections
in cats when he suffered a fatal accident. His loss was felt around the world.
These guidelines are dedicated in memory of Jim, one of the greatest advocates
cats ever had.
Source : http://www.catvets.com/guidelines/practice-guidelines/retrovirus-management-guidelines
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