Stop FIV - Feline Immunodeficiency Virus

Feline AIDS is caused by infection with feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV). FIV causes a potentially fatal viral disease that interferes with the immune system of a cat.

The virus lives in the blood of the infected cat and is carried in its system throughout its life. Healthy cats contract the infection through being bitten by an FIV positive cat - approximately 18% of cats in SA are FIV positive.

Cats infected with FIV may remain healthy for a number of years. While some infected cats show no sign of disease, others may display initial symptoms.

Eventually the immune system becomes too weak to fight off other infections or diseases. As a result, the cat will die from one of these subsequent diseases.

Keeping Your Pet Cool

With the hot weather not far away, here are some tips on how to keep your pet cool:

• Ensure adequate shade and clean drinking water is available at all times
• Limit exercise to early morning and late evening
• Add ice to their water bowl, or make a "doggy iceblock" by filling a plastic container with water or stock and add some treats, cooked rice, raw fruit/vegies or dog biscuits and freeze. The resulting ice block will keep your dog cool as well as entertained