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How to run the WITNESS FeLV/FIV feline test | VETgirl Veterinary Continuing Education Videos

In this VETgirl online veterinary continuing education video, we demonstrate how to use a WITNESS Feline Leukemia (FeLV)/Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) test by Zoetis. While these infectious diseases are rare in cats, they can dramatically affect the prognosis of the feline patient. FeLV is a highly infectious retrovirus that is transmitted by contact (e.g., licking, aerosol spread, biting, placental, etc.). Clinical syndromes from FeLV include the development of leukemia, lymphoma, anemia, and immunosuppression. The prognosis for FeLV is poor. The diagnosis of FeLV infection is based on detection of protein p27, a viral antigen.

FIV is also a highly infectious lentivirus and can result in the clinical syndrome of immunosuppression. The prevalence of FIV is reported to be 1 to 20%, depending on the geographical location. FIV is also transmitted by contact (e.g., licking, biting, etc.). Other clinical syndromes include lymphadenopathy, anemia, neurologic disorders, opportunistic infections or tumors, stomatitis, and gastroenteritis. The prognosis for FIV is generally considered to be much better as compared to FeLV, as cats can live with the disease for years. The diagnosis of FIV infection is based on the presence of anti-gp40 antibodies.

To use the WITNESS FeLV/FIV test, only one drop (0.05 mL) of plasma, serum, or anticoagulanted blood (blood that has been collected in an EDTA [purple top] or heparin [green top] tube) is needed. This test is different from other companies (that use ELISA), as it utilizes RIM™ (Rapid Immuno Migration) technology. Results are available within 10 minutes, and are easy to interpret in the result window for FeLV and FIV. For each test:

One line on the right = negative
Two lines = positive

Keep in mind that any “ADR” cat with an unknown FeLV/FIV status should be tested, as a positive diagnosis may affect a pet owner’s desire to treat based on the prognosis.

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