- 1). Confirm the test results. If the SNAP test done in your veterinarian's office is positive, ask your vet to send the blood to a laboratory for a Western Blot test. SNAP tests can return false positives.
- 2). Feed your cat well. A cat with a compromised immune system needs the best diet you can afford. Cats are carnivores and need animal protein and moderate amounts of fat. Wet food, which contains mostly meat, is best for all cats. That's especially true for cats with FIV.
- 3). Add supplements. Buffered Vitamin C boosts the immune system and kills bacteria. Bone meal helps to recover bone mass as FIV leaches calcium from the system. And a probiotic like acidophiles restores the healthy bacteria present in the cat's gut. Most health food and pet supply stores sell probiotics.
- 4). Treat any illness immediately. Remember, your FIV cat does not have the resources to fight infection, so never take a "wait and see" approach if he shows signs of illness. Upper respiratory infections and stomatitis, which affects the cat's gums, are especially common in FIV cats.
- 5). Watch for herpes. Many FIV cats are prone to herpes infections. Lysine can give your cat's immune system a boost and keep the herpes virus in check. Most health food stores sell lysine. Crush the tablets in a coffee grinder and mix the powder in with your cat's wet food. Or ask your vet for "Rx Vitamins for Pets Liquid Immuno," which contains lysine and other supplements.
- 6). Ask your vet about Interferon A. The low-dose protocol used for cats stimulates the immune system. In a cat prone to herpes, it can prevent flareups.
Caring for your FIV Cat
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