The combination “feline leukemia virus” (FeLV) and “feline immunodeficiency virus” (FIV) screenings, often conducted using a rapid immunochromatographic assay, provides crucial information about a cat’s health status. These point-of-care tests detect antibodies against these retroviruses in a small blood sample, offering relatively swift results. A positive outcome indicates exposure and potential infection, while a negative result suggests the absence of antibodies. Confirmatory testing is sometimes recommended, particularly for positive results.
Early detection of these viral infections offers several advantages. It allows for prompt implementation of appropriate management strategies, including isolation to prevent transmission to other cats. Understanding a cat’s FeLV/FIV status is also crucial for making informed decisions about vaccination, other preventative healthcare measures, and overall prognosis. The development of these rapid diagnostic tools has revolutionized the approach to feline infectious disease management, facilitating earlier diagnoses and improved outcomes for individual cats and overall population health.
