Feline Immunodeficiency Virus

Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) is a virus similar to HIV which causes AIDS in humans. FIV is most commonly found in free-roaming outdoor cats, especially in un-neutered male cats. Un-neutered male cats pose a threat to other cats as they are more likely to fight due to territory and especially when females come into season.

FIV is hard to spot at an early stage, but some possible signs of infection are:

Lethargy
Loss of appetite and significant weight loss
Chronic mouth ulcers
Persistent diarrhea and vomiting
Chest and eye infections
Severe anaemia

The average age of a cat infected with FIV is 7 years, and up to 15% of all cats tested are positive for FIV. Transmission occurs mainly through biting. Humans cannot catch FIV, so there is no need to worry as it poses no threat to us.

Please keep infected cats indoors and away from other cats to reduce the risk of spreading the virus.

Treatment can be disappointing as there is no cure for FIV, however secondary infection can be controlled with basic antibiotics and intravenous fluid. Other forms of therapy can also boost the cat's immune system to increase the cat's life.

TOHOKU-PACIFIC QUAKE ANIMALS

Our priority now is on housing the remaining 16 dogs from the Tohoku earthquake and tsunami, many of whom have owners, but who are unable to take them back. The area (land) where the Earthquake dogs are now housed, has been rented for many years but now due to changing circumstances of the owners, is due to be returned to them. That means there is some urgency in building new kennels for them in Sasayama. Your continuing support is appreciated.
	Donation F.A.Q.