Pride and Purr-judice: Perception of Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) by veterinary personnel, animal shelter staff and cat owners
This session summarises the conclusions of a student research project investigating the perceptions of Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) in cat owners, shelter staff and veterinary personnel and comparing these to the latest scientific literature. It highlights how historical associations with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) may still be influencing decision-making for and therefore the welfare of FIV-positive cats.
Drawing on results from an online questionnaire, it examines what misconceptions exist surrounding FIV transmission, prognosis and management. Key findings suggest that veterinary staff and students perceive greater risks and a poorer prognosis for FIV+ cats than current scientific literature suggests. Attendees will gain greater insight into the study’s key findings, consider the importance of evidence-based veterinary practice, and leave with a clearer understanding of current FIV research and prognosis.
- - Recognise that FIV is a disease that only has a mild impact on an affected cat’s welfare, quality of life and life expectancy.
- - Understand that the data from this study suggests that there is a lack of knowledge surrounding FIV in the veterinary sector, specifically regarding its transmissibility, associated morbidity and impact on life expectancy.
- - Navigate to appropriate resources (e.g. 2020 Retrovirus Guidelines published by the American Associations of Feline Practitioners) for information about FIV management.
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