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Furkids is one of the only animal rescue organizations in Georgia that has the capability to rescue and house FIV+ cats. Through the development of our cage-free, no-kill shelter in 2006, we were able to dedicate a special room for housing FIV+ cats.
Through public awareness and education, our goal is to place our FIV+ cats in to loving, permanent homes where they can flourish.
The first thing to realize is that FIV is not a death sentence. In fact, adopting an FIV+ cat is virtually the same as adopting any other cat; FIV cats are affectionate, beautiful, funny, playful- and special in their own unique ways.
What is FIV?
Feline Immumodeficiency Virus (FIV) is a type of virus called a retrovirus. This virus is in the same family as Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV- the virus that causes AIDS). FIV attacks the immune system, and as a result, felines become susceptible to various secondary infections and cancers. However, retroviruses are species-specific: a feline retrovirus such as FIV will only infect cats; a human retrovirus such as HIV will only infect humans.
How is FIV transmitted
FIV is shed in the feline's saliva, but transmitted through blood- primarily via bite wounds.
How is FIV treated?
Cats with FIV need to be treated according to the signs of disease they are showing. Generally, FIV+ cats can live up to 10 years without any signs or symptoms. However, this is based on a healthy lifestyle with proper nutrition and supportive veterinary care. FIV+ felines should avoid stressful environments and exposure to animals with contagious diseases. Also, FIV+ felines should be kept indoors both to protect them from exposure to other diseases and also to prevent them from spreading FIV to other cats.
Reference: www.about.com
| Celebrating Adopted FIV+ Cats!
I adopted Santiago (formerly Romey) about 9 months ago. He is FIV+ and I have another FIV- cat Smoke--who is 18 years old. They play rough sometimes but are best friends in the world and share their meals, toys and bed! Santiago has an amazing personality and is pushing 18 pounds! Both kitties are in wonderful health and I urge anyone looking to adopt a kitty to have NO fear of FIV+ cats or bringing one home to join your additional pets—these special kitties need homes too!! Santiago has been nothing but a joy and will be celebrating his 2nd birthday very soon!
--With Love, Kellie
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Visit the links below for more information on Feline Iummnodeficiency Virus.
FIV Links:
Wikipedia
Cornell University
Max's House
Excellent Article- Alley Cat
Animal Health Channel
Veterinary Partner
Black Giraffe
Castaway Critters
cats.about.com
If you would like more information on adopting or fostering an FIV cat, please e-mail us at adopt@furkids.org, or call 770-613-0009.
FIV Adoption Statistics
| Furkids FIV+ Cats |
| Year |
Intake |
Adopted |
| 2006 |
21 |
6 |
| 2005 |
3 |
6 |
| 2004 |
1 |
0 |
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