Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) is primary transmitted through biting when blood is drawn.  It is thought the risk of transmission of the virus between two non-aggressive cats is low.  A feline with FIV, with appropriate care, can live for years and may not experience a shortened lifespan.  For more information on FIV, click here.

Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV,) on the other hand, is easily spread through saliva, urine, and feces.  Although FeLV can lead to multiple disorders, it the most common cause of cancer in cats.

FIV and FeLV may lead to an immune deficient state which can allow bacteria, viruses, etc, that do not typically impact healthy animals, to result in illness.  It is estimated that up to 4% of the 83 million cats in the United States have one or both of these diseases.  For more information on FeLV, click here.

 

 

Information was summarized from Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine website.

Feline Immunodeficiency Virus. (n.d.) Retrieved from http://www.vet.cornell.edu/fhc/health_information/brochure_fiv.cfm.

Feline Leukemia Virus. (n.d.) Retrieved from http://www.vet.cornell.edu/fhc/health_information/brochure_felv.cfm