FLV/FIV Test
FLV/FIV Test
Sometimes called a "Snap Test".
Who Should Be Tested
All newly adopted cats and kittens, cats who go outdoors, some ill cats depending on risk factors.
What Kind of Sample We Need
A small amount of blood.
What We Are Looking For
FLV or FeLV stands for Feline Leukemia Virus. FIV stands for Feline Immunodeficiency Virus. Some people call FIV "feline HIV" or "feline AIDS" - the viruses are very similar but not exactly the same, and people CANNOT catch FIV. Both FLV and FIV attack the immune system. The test we run in-house looks for antigen - proteins produced by the virus itself - to test for FLV, and for antibodies - the body's immune response to the virus - to test for FIV.
Why This Test Is Important
Neither FeLV nor FIV are an immediate death sentence, but both mean that your cat has a weakened immune system and is at higher risk for other infections. Both can be transmitted to other cats (FLV through close contact such as mutual grooming or sharing water dishes; FIV can only be transmitted through bite wounds or sexual contact), and so contagion is a concern in a multi-cat household or if your cat goes outdoors. In cats with no symptoms, a positive diagnosis lets you know that your cat should be kept indoors and that you need to monitor his or her health especially closely, to catch any symptoms early. In the case of FeLV, other uninfected cats in the household should be vaccinated or separated from the infected cat. In cats who test positive when they are ill, the diagnosis will allow you and the vet to make informed decisions about your cat's treatment and quality of life.
How Often We Should Test
At least once in your cat's life, preferably soon after adoption; the frequency of testing thereafter depends on risk factors in your cat's life (whether he or she goes outside, if there are infected cats in the household, etc). We'll talk to you about it and make an individual recommendation.
For more information on the difference between FeLV and FLV, go here: The difference between Feline Leukemia Virus and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus
For more information about FeLV/FIV testing, go here: Feline Leukemia Virus and Feline Immunodeficiency Virus Testing
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