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Like many pet parents you may have heard about Feline Aids but disregarded it because you thought it was a rare occurrence. We have had an increase in enquiries after screening of a recent story on TV3 National News regarding cat AIDS.  The veterinarian in this story was recommending euthanasia of outdoor cats infected with Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) - the cause of cat AIDS.

The GOOD news is there is a vaccination available to help protect your cat against this deadly disease.

How severe is the problem?

FIV is a viral infection mostly transmitted from cat to cat by fighting. Studies have shown that it is common in New Zealand with 5-15% of cats infected .Cats are often territorial even if they have been desexed and so if your cat goes outside it may get involved in a fight with another cat. .Remember your neighbours will shift house now and then even if you don’t so it is inevitable that at some time in their life your cat will run into an aggressive neighbouring cat .

It is important to note that FIV does not cause infections in humans.

What can be done?

We recommend that all non- geriatric adult cats with access to the outdoors are tested for FIV infection, and receive 3 initial vaccinations 2 weeks apart.  Kittens normally start the vaccination course from 5 months of age as the blood test may give a false result until about that age.  All cats should receive an annual booster to provide ongoing protection against FIV.

There is a world wide shortage of stocks of the vaccine so please be patient if at times New Zealand runs out of stock for a few weeks!

As mentioned should your pet become infected you do NOT have to euthanase your pet you merely need to consult with your us on the best possible way to keep your pet and those in your neighbourhood safe.

Prevention is the best way to keep your pet healthy.

If you are planning to have your friend with you for a long time we strongly recommend you call us today on 5292091 to arrange FIV vaccination for your cat.