Why test for FIV and FeLV?

According to the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP), feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and feline leukemia virus (FeLV) infections are two main causes of illness and death in cats.

For a detailed overview of the two diseases, including signs, diagnosis and management, consult the AAFP Guidelines on Retrovirus Testing. (7,288 KB)

FIV and FeLV are prevalent, but a very small percentage of potentially infected cats are being tested.

• Americans own approximately 77.6 million cats as compared to 65 million dogs.¹
• 46% of cats (or 35.6 million) spend time outside.²
• According to the American Association of Feline Practitioners, cats that go outdoors, 35.6 million, are at risk for exposure to FeLV.³

Test your knowledge of FIV and FeLV.

The truth is:

• Many cats you wouldn't suspect of being at risk for exposure, might be. NEW RESEARCH shows that one in seven cats with oral disease also have FIV and/or FeLV. (44 KB)
• FIV and FeLV are transmitted from feline to feline, so infection status information is critical.

Early detection can allow for a long, healthy life. You can help control the spread of these potentially deadly diseases.

Let IDEXX help you with guidelines for diagnosing and managing patients and FREE client education materials available to your clinic: observation forms, countertop displays, exam room posters, brochures, reminder cards, reminder stamps, kitten packs and more.

Call 1-800-248-2483 to order free materials.

Reference
1	APPMA. 2003/2004 National Pet Owners Survey. 2004.
2	APPMA. 2001/2002 APPMA National Pet Owners Survey. 2002.
3	AAFP. Report of the American Association of Feline Practitioners and Academy of Feline Medicine Advisory Panel on Feline Retrovirus Testing and Management. 2005. (7,288 KB)

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