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Pregnant Cat with HIV

Sent to Cat Experts September 6 2006 at 5:07 PM
   

I just rescued a lovable pregnant cat and now found out she has HIV. I took her to the vet for an upper respiratory infection and she is now on antibiotics. The vet called last night to tell me her blood test showed HIV. I just read that this can be transmitted to the kittens through the milk. She is due any day. I am at a loss to know what to do at this time. I wanted to put the kittens up for adoption at a reasonable time but now they might get HIV. What would you suggest my best option would be .   Please advise.

 

Optional Information:
Age: <1; Female; Breed: cat

Already Tried:
antibiotic

Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Status:  Closed   Value: $8
Answer
September 6 2006 at 6:10 PM (1 hour and 3 minutes and 12 seconds later)
         
ACCEPTEDCheck Mark
Cats do not get HIV as people get, but they do get FIV. You are right, this is can be transmitted to the kittens. But recent evidence says that queens infected prior to the pregnancy may not give it to the kittens. I would recommend having the kittens tested for FIV at 6 weeks of age and to have the mother spayed as soon as possible. Here is a website with some information on FIV.

http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?cls=1&cat=1354&articleid=213

Respond if you need more information or if my answer didn't exactly answer your question. If I have been helpful, please ACCEPT the answer and please LEAVE FEEDBACK!!

Dr. Louis Gotthelf
Animal Hospital of Montgomery
Pet Skin and Ear Clinic
dr4pets -- Doctor of Veterinary Medicine -- 98% Positive Feedback on 179 Cat Accepts
30 years owning a dog and cat veterinary practice in Alabama. President, Animal Emergency Clinic
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