Retroviruses of cats: A review Journal Article

  


Author: Brandon, R.
Article Title: Retroviruses of cats: A review
Abstract: Exogenous feline retroviruses, which are not part of the normal cat genome, include feline leukaemia virus (FeLV), feline sarcoma virus (FeSV), feline syncytium-forming virus (FeSFV) and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV). The major pathogens in this group are FIV and FeLV. FeLV alone is the most common cause of non-accidental death in cats. Prevalence in Australia is approximately 9% and 26% for FeLV and Fnr respectively. FeLV infection is more common in symptomatic, mixed breed, multi-cat household, outdoor, one- to six-year-old male and female cats. On the other hand, FIV can be found more often in symptomatic, mixed breed, multi-cat household, male, older FeLV-infected cats. Clinical signs are similar for both infections and can include any of the following: weight loss, fever, dehydration, anorexia, rough coat, lethargy, gingivitis, respiratory infection, skin infection, intestinal infection. Active FeLV infection is diagnosed through the detection of viral antigen (p27) in serum or lymphocytes using a convenient ELISA. Detection of serum antibodies to FIV determines the presence of FIV infection. No specific treatment exists for FeLV-infected of FIV-infected cats. Therapy is therefore directed at treating the clinical signs. Control of FeLV and FIV is best achieved through diagnostic and removal programs. An effective vaccine for FeLV is available and should be used on all young FeLV-negative cats. No effective vaccine exists for FIV.
Journal Title: Australian Veterinary Practitioner
Volume: 25
Issue: 1
ISSN: 0310-138X
Publisher: Australian Small Animal Veterinary Association  
Date Published: 1995-03-01
Start Page: 8, 10
End Page: 17
Language: English
ACCESSION: WOS:A1995QP45800002
PROVIDER: wos
Notes: Review -- Source: Wos