WHAT ARE THEY?
Feline Leukemia Virus (FLV) and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) are two of the most serious infectious diseases of cats.

WHAT KIND OF PROBLEMS DO THEY CAUSE?
Both of these viruses act similarly to HIV in people by suppressing the immune system and predisposing the patient to a variety of illnesses and cancers. There is no effective treatment for either and, although some individuals can remain in an inactive state for an extended length of time, most cases are ultimately fatal.

HOW DO THEY GET THESE DISEASES?
The viruses are spread through body fluids (saliva, urine, feces, and blood) and can be passed from mother to kittens. Outdoor cats are the highest risk group.

HOW CAN THEY BE PREVENTED?
1. All cats should be kept indoors at all times. Outdoor cats are at high risk for FLV and FIV in addition to other serious problems—heartworms, fight wounds, and encounters with dogs and cars.
2. All new cats should be tested before entering their new home to avoid infecting resident cats.
3. Outdoor cats should be tested and vaccinated. Indoor cats are at such low risk that vaccination is not necessary.
4. Outdoor cats should be tested yearly, regardless of their vaccination status. No vaccine protects 100% of the population.

TESTING SCHEDULE

• Kittens are tested for FLV at 9 weeks—earlier if being introduced into a house with other cats. FIV testing is not done at this time, as the test will not accurately identify positive cases until 5-6 months of age.
• FLV / FIV testing is done at 5-6 months of age—usually at the time of spaying or neutering. Kittens are retested for FLV at 6 months of age as some cases will not test positive until this age.
• All new cats are tested regardless of age. All cats are tested prior to vaccination.
• Outdoor cats are tested yearly regardless of vaccination status.